Consequences of Exceeding the Income Ceiling in Utrecht

In Utrecht, exceeding the income ceiling has direct consequences for tenants of social housing, such as those from Housing Corporation De Alliantie or Portaal. First, you receive a letter with income statement from the housing association. Within two months, you must prove that your income remains below €47,699 (2024 ceiling for single-person household). If you fail to do so, a proposal for rent increase to free sector level follows, often 30-50% higher, which in Utrecht amounts to rents of €1,200-€1,800 per month in neighborhoods like Kanaleneiland or Overvecht. After a year without a solution, the landlord may terminate the tenancy agreement via the Utrecht District Court (art. 7:271 BW). You get a maximum of two years' grace period to move out. During this period, you do not build up passive tenancy rights. Local figures from the Municipality of Utrecht show that 25% of exceeders leave within a year for more expensive rentals in Lombok or to purchase homes via DUWO. Objection is possible with the Rent Tribunal in Utrecht if the housing association does not comply with the local Housing Allocation Ordinance. For vulnerable groups, such as those aged 65+ or status holders, exceptions apply via the Utrecht Hardship Clause or priority procedure at the Housing Company. Prevent escalation by reporting to the housing association in time and seeking alternatives, such as priority for social housing in Tuindorp or Nederberg.