Income Limits and Admission Requirements for Social Housing in Utrecht
In Utrecht, social housing is intended for households with a lower income, with a limited supply due to high demand. The Affordable Rent Act sets the national limits: for 2024, a maximum of €47,699 for single-person households and €52,671 for multi-person households. The municipality of Utrecht enforces these standards strictly through housing associations such as Portaal and Bo-Ex.
Admission Requirements in Utrecht
You meet the rent allowance threshold, do not own your own home, and are registered in the Utrecht Housing Ordinance. The municipality screens via the Personal Records Database (BRP). In addition, the suitability test applies: the rent may not exceed 130% of the quality profile of your household. Utrecht prioritizes urgent groups such as starters and emergency seekers.
Report Change in Income
Does your income rise above the limit? Report this within one month to your landlord or the municipality of Utrecht, otherwise re-placement on the waiting list is imminent. A decreasing income may lead to priority through the municipality's urgency procedure.
Exceptions and Objection Procedures
Status holders, bereaved persons, or victims of domestic violence often receive relaxed rules in Utrecht. In case of unjustified refusal, you can lodge an objection with the municipality and subsequently appeal under the General Administrative Law Act (Awb). Local pilots such as the Utrecht Housing Market Monitor provide additional insights.
Check your income and status annually via the Utrecht housing desk. Local rules in Utrecht are often stricter than the national average due to the tight market.