Liberalisation Threshold Utrecht: Transition to the Free Sector in the Domstad

In Utrecht, the liberalisation threshold marks the division between regulated social housing rent (WWS) and the free sector: €879.66 in 2024. Properties above this, such as much new construction in the Merwedekanaalzone or luxury apartments in Utrecht Oost, escape rent price control. Landlords in Utrecht must register with the Land Registry (Kadaster) before 1 July of the preceding year. Tenants then lose WWS protection but retain termination protection against arbitrary termination. Exception for existing contracts: these remain regulated until the next revision. Test your property via the Huurcommissie point system: more than 216 points means free sector. Due to the extreme housing shortage in Utrecht, the municipality has lowered the liberalisation threshold to €808.06 for 2024 to protect more affordable rental housing. This follows the national regulation allowing municipalities like Utrecht to intervene in cases of tightness. Disputes over registration or rent price? Report them to the Huurcommissie in Utrecht. This system stimulates new construction projects such as Amsterdamsestraatweg and Kanaleneiland, but critics point to declining affordability for starters and families. Tip for Utrecht tenants: check the Kadaster registration online to prevent unexpected rent increases in neighbourhoods like Lombok or Wittevrouwen. Stay alert to local developments via the municipality website. (248 words)