Rent Increase Point System in Utrecht: How Does It Work?
In Utrecht, a landlord may not arbitrarily increase the rent price for a **rent increase**. For rental properties in the **private sector**, the **point system** applies. This limits the increase based on the **rent index** and the **age of the property**. Discover your rights in Utrecht and where you can go to the **District Court Midden-Nederland** or the **Juridisch Loket Utrecht**.
What Does the Point System Entail for Utrecht?
The **point system** regulates rent increases in the **private sector** and is included in the **Rent Increases Private Sector Act (WHVS)** and the **Rent Act**. In Utrecht, with many private sector rental properties, this protects tenants against excessive increases. The calculation depends on the **rent index** (CBS data) and the **construction age** of your property on the Oudegracht or elsewhere.
Note: Only for the private sector; social rent in Utrecht follows different rules via housing associations and **rent allowance**.
Legal Basis in Utrecht
Important laws:
- Rent Increases Private Sector Act (WHVS): Maximum increases private sector.
- Rent Act (art. 7:270-7:278): Procedure and point calculation.
- Decree on Rent Increases Private Sector (BHV): Points per index and age.
The **rent index** comes from the CBS. In case of disputes: **District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht**.
Calculating Points for Your Utrecht Property
Two main factors:
- Rent index: Monthly CBS update for price development.
- Property age: Older buildings (often in Utrecht center) receive a point discount.
Calculation: Convert index to points, corrected for age. Example: For a 2% index increase and 15-year-old property: max. 1.2% increase due to 60% point factor.
Points per Age Category
Overview of maximum increase (source: Rechtspraak.nl):
| Age of property | Point factor | Max. increase (at +2% index) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 years | 100% | 2.0% |
| 5–10 years | 80% | 1.6% |
| 10–20 years | 60% | 1.2% |
| 20+ years | 40% | 0.8% |
In Utrecht: check with **Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55** for free advice.
Your Rights and Help in Utrecht
Landlord must announce 2 months in advance. Too much? Object within 4 weeks. Help: Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55 or **District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1**.