Rent Increase Limited Sector in Utrecht: Your Rights and Rules
In the limited sector of the Utrecht rental market, strict rules apply to rent increases. This includes social housing, tender housing and homes in the transitional sector. In Utrecht, with many corporation homes, the agreements are even stricter. Discover here how it works, your rights and what to do in case of disagreement.
What is the Limited Sector in Utrecht?
The limited sector in Utrecht includes:
- Social Rental Sector: Homes from Utrecht corporations such as Portaal and Bo-Ex for low incomes with rent allowance.
- Tender Sector: Corporations that rent via lottery with extra restrictions on increases.
- Transitional Sector: Homes in transition to the free sector with phased increases.
In Utrecht, the Housing Allowance and Rent Increase Act 2015 plus the local Rent Act 2021 apply. The municipality of Utrecht exercises strict supervision.
Legal Basis in Utrecht
Key rules:
- Art. 7:609a DCC: Limitation of social rent increases.
- Art. 7:609b DCC: Tender sector.
- Art. 7:609c DCC: Transitional rules.
- Housing Allowance Act 2015: Max. 2.2% indexation (2024) or 4.9% for quality improvement.
Utrecht corporations have agreed on 0% increase for vulnerable tenants in 2024.
How Often in Utrecht?
Maximum once per year per Rent Act 2021. Exceptions: improvements (max. once every 10 years) or transition to free sector.
How Much May Be Increased in Utrecht?
| Sector | Annual Increase 2024 | For Improvement | Transition to Free Sector |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Rental | Max. 2.2% index | Max. 4.9% | Gradual |
| Tender | Often 0% | 4.9% with permission | Gradual |
| Transitional | 0-2.2% | 4.9% | To free rent |
What If You Disagree in Utrecht?
Contact your landlord. Disagree? File an objection within 6 weeks. Go to the District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht. Free advice at Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55 (tel. 0900-8020). Huurteam Utrecht also helps with negotiations.
Utrecht Tips
Check your rent via Huurcommissie. In Utrecht, no increase without written permission. In emergency: report to Municipality of Utrecht Housing.