Rent Increase for Social Housing in Utrecht: Maximum Percentages 2024
In Utrecht, the rent for social housing may be increased by a maximum of 5.4% in 2024 or adjusted to the maximum rent price according to the liberalisation threshold. Utrecht housing associations such as Bo-Ex, Portaal and De Alliantie must announce this increase in writing before 1 May. As a tenant in the Domstad, you can agree, negotiate or file an objection with the Rent Tribunal.
Types of Rent Increases Specific to Utrecht
Inflation-linked increase: Limited to 5.4%, based on the national norm. In Utrecht, where the waiting time for social housing averages 8 years, this is relevant for tens of thousands of tenants in neighbourhoods such as Kanaleneiland and Overvecht. Affordability adjustment: After vacancy, the rent can be set to the income-dependent upper limit (up to €879.66 for 1-2 persons). Improvements: Additional increase for investments such as energy-efficient measures in Utrecht homes, but only with tenant consent.
Objection Procedure for Utrecht Residents
- Send a written refusal to your housing association within 2 months, referring to Utrecht tenant interest organisations such as Woondiensten Utrecht.
- Continue paying at least 40% of the increased rent during the procedure to prevent eviction.
- The Rent Tribunal (with an office in Utrecht) will issue a binding ruling within a few weeks.
In Utrecht, no increase in case of recent restructurings or ongoing disputes. The Good Landlordship Act art. 7 provides additional protection against excessive increases by local housing associations. Consult the Utrecht Housing Compass for personal advice.
Inflation Table for 2024
- 2023: 2%.
- 2024: 5.4% (according to CPB forecast, in line with Utrecht inflation development).
Always check your tenancy agreement and the current liberalisation thresholds via the municipality of Utrecht or the central government.