Role of Housing Associations in Social Rental Housing in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, housing associations such as Woonbron, Vestia, and Havista manage approximately 75% of social rental housing. They must allocate 90% to households with an income below €47,699 (reference date 2024). Appropriate allocation is mandatory under the Rotterdam Housing Allocation Ordinance: no middle-income households in the cheapest segments, to prioritize scarce social housing for low-income groups.
Allocation Rules in Rotterdam
Housing is allocated via WoningNet Rotterdam or the local housing allocation ordinance. Urgency status is available for starters, those aged 65+, status holders, and Rotterdam residents with medical necessity or victims of domestic violence. Associations may allocate a maximum of 5% of housing with urgency status, strictly monitored by the municipality of Rotterdam to prevent abuse.
Rights and Obligations as a Tenant in Rotterdam
- Transparency: Associations publish current waiting lists on their websites and via the Rotterdam WoningNet portal.
- Tenancy Agreement: Standard minimum term of 1 year, with a fixed rental period and option for extension.
- Maintenance: The association is responsible for major maintenance; minor maintenance falls under the tenant. In Rotterdam neighbourhoods such as Charlois and Feijenoord, the municipality invests extra in liveability.
In case of default: submit a complaint to the association, escalate to the Housing Ombudsman or the Rotterdam Legal Aid Office. Housing Act art. 47 regulates municipal supervision, with specific audits in Rotterdam by Roteb and the municipality.
Alternatives in Rotterdam
Private social landlords have fallen under the same strict Rotterdam rules since 2015. Also look at district initiatives or the Housing Assistance Team for urgency applications in the region.