What Does Scheefwonen Mean?
In Utrecht and elsewhere, scheefwonen refers to the situation in which someone with a relatively high income lives in a social housing unit. This can limit access to affordable housing for people with lower incomes. There is much debate about possible solutions to this problem.
Types of Scheefwonen
| Category | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Cheap scheefwonen | High incomes with low rent prices | Possible rent increase based on income |
| Expensive scheefwonen | Low incomes with high rent costs | Financial challenges |
When Are You Considered a Scheefwoner?
In Utrecht, you are considered a scheefwoner if:
- Your annual income is higher than the threshold for social housing (€47,699 in 2024)
- You live in a social housing unit
- You would currently not qualify for a social housing unit
Income-Based Rent Increase
Extra Costs with a High Income
If your income in 2024 is above €52,753, your landlord in Utrecht may apply an additional rent increase:
- €50 extra per month for an income between €52,753 and €62,191
- €100 extra per month for an income above €62,191
This measure is intended to stimulate mobility in the housing market.
Obliged to Move?
In Utrecht, you do not have to move if you are scheefwonen:
- You benefit from rent protection
- The landlord cannot force you to leave
- However, a higher rent increase may be applied
- You may lose the right to rent allowance
Stimulating Mobility
To promote mobility in Utrecht, there are alternatives:
- Buy your social housing unit, sometimes with a discount
- Switch to a property in the private sector or a home purchase
- Move to another social housing unit that better suits your situation
Can I be forced to move due to my income?
No, a high income is not grounds for eviction in Utrecht. You may continue to live there.
What happens if my income decreases?
If your income falls below the threshold, the extra rent increase lapses and you can reapply for rent allowance.
Am I responsible for scheefwonen?
No, income changes are normal. However, the current system in Utrecht is not well attuned to this.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scheefwonen in Utrecht
How do I know if I am scheefwonen?
You are a scheefwoner if your income is above €47,699 (2024) and you live in a social housing unit in Utrecht. Compare your income to this threshold and check if you still qualify for social housing. Your landlord can also identify this via the Tax Authorities.
Can my landlord force me to move?
No, in Utrecht a landlord cannot oblige you to move due to a high income. Rent protection applies. However, an extra rent increase may be applied for incomes above €52,753.
What does scheefwonen cost me extra?
For an income between €52,753 and €62,191, your landlord in Utrecht may charge €50 extra per month. Above €62,191, this is €100 extra, in addition to the standard rent increase.
Will I lose my rent allowance?
Yes, if your income is higher than €36,798 (for singles in 2024), your right to rent allowance lapses. This also applies in cases of scheefwonen. If your income is lower, you can reapply for allowance via the Tax Authorities.
What choices do I have as a scheefwoner?
In Utrecht, you can: 1) Stay and pay extra rent, 2) Move to a home for purchase or private sector, 3) Buy your property (possibly with a discount), 4) Look for another social housing unit.
Legal Support in Utrecht
For legal advice on scheefwonen or rent issues, you can contact:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht