Rent Price Protection for Temporary Rental Agreements in Utrecht

In Utrecht, where housing shortages are high and starters often receive temporary contracts in neighbourhoods such as Kanaleneiland or Lombok, strict rent price protection applies. The maximum rent price is determined via the housing valuation system (Article 7:245 DCC), including points for WOZ value, surface area and facilities such as Utrecht bicycle parking garages. Use the Rent Price Check on Rijksoverheid.nl or check with the Utrecht Rent Team for local advice. In case of exceedance, you can go to the Rent Tribunal for reduction within six months – in Utrecht, tenants won an average 20% discount in 2023. For temporary contracts, no liberalisation threshold applies; all rental housing has been protected since 2016, including luxury apartments near Utrecht Centraal. The landlord may not demand an excessive deposit (max. two months' rent), and private landlords in Utrecht are strictly monitored by the municipality. Upon conversion to indefinite term, the price remains intact. Disputes: tenants often win with excessive prices, especially with Airbnb conversions. Tip: add the entry point with the most recent Utrecht WOZ reference date. Housing associations such as Portaal must ensure affordability according to the Utrecht Housing Allocation Ordinance. Practical examples: starter homes in Overvecht with hidden service costs or parking surcharges. Contact the Utrecht Rent Advice Hour for free help. (248 words)