Rental Agreements and WWS Applicability in Utrecht

In Utrecht, not all rental agreements fall under the Housing Valuation Act (WWS); room rentals in student cities such as Utrecht, holiday homes near the canals, and company housing such as at universities are excluded (Article 7:232 CC). For social housing in Utrecht, a housing association is often required as landlord, such as Portaal or Bo-Ex, or the rent must remain below the liberalisation threshold of €879.66 (2024). If exceeded, free price formation applies, but with the statutory notice period of one month for rooms. Specifically in Utrecht: check clauses on service charges for municipal taxes and indexation linked to Utrecht inflation figures. Invalid terms, such as unilateral termination by landlords in Kanaleneiland or Overvecht, are null and void and may lead to disputes. In case of doubt about qualification: contact the Rent Tribunal, with an office in Utrecht. Digital contracts for Utrecht tenants must comply with eIDAS rules for validity. Municipal rules, such as the Utrecht Housing Allocation Ordinance, restrict room rentals in busy neighbourhoods. This framework prevents abuse by rogue landlords and provides clarity at the start of the rental period in the Domstad. (248 words)