What is scheefwonen in Rotterdam and what are the consequences?
In Rotterdam, scheefwonen arises when your income rises above the income limit for social housing rental, but you hold on to an affordable housing association property in neighbourhoods such as Charlois or Feijenoord. This displaces starters and families from the overstretched Rotterdam housing market. In 2024, the limit is €47,699 for single-person households and €52,671 for multi-person households, according to national rules.
Consequences of scheefwonen in Rotterdam
Rotterdam housing associations such as Woonbron or Vestia may charge higher service costs or require relocation to more expensive segments in Kralingen or IJsselmonde. If refused, stepwise rent increases follow. The Wet goed verhuurderschap protects tenants, but compels housing associations to prioritise low incomes, in line with Rotterdam's scheefwonen policy.
Solutions for scheefwoners in Rotterdam
- Relocate yourself: To a mid-range rental property in Rotterdam-South with possible rent allowance via the municipality.
- Accept rent increase: Up to the liberalisation limit of €879.66 (2024), with advice from the Rotterdam Woonloket.
- Local scheefwonen scheme: Negotiate with the landlord via the Rotterdam Action Plan Housing for custom solutions, such as temporary discounts.
Contact the Huurcommissie or Juridisch Loket Rotterdam in case of disputes. The municipality strictly monitors scheefwonen; act in time to avoid fines in busy neighbourhoods such as Delfshaven.