Exceptions to Income-Dependent Rent Increases in Utrecht

Not all tenants in Utrecht are subject to income-dependent rent increases. Exceptions apply to new-build properties, such as recent projects in Utrecht Science Park or Merwedekanaalzone (first two years), temporary contracts shorter than two years, and rent prices below the liberalisation threshold (€808.06 in 2024) in the regulated sector. In cases of income reduction, retirement, or recent developments such as the Utrecht performance agreements with housing associations, the increase may be moderated or waived. In the event of divorce, only the income of the principal tenant is taken into account. For expats with foreign income, which is common in Utrecht due to universities and international companies, the scheme does not always apply, provided it is proven with documents. During the corona crisis (2020-2022), rent increases were temporarily prohibited, and Utrecht housing associations such as Portaal and Bo-Ex strictly followed the local guidelines. Landlords may not increase rent in the case of ongoing disputes via the Utrecht Huurteam or payment arrears. Check your situation via the Huurprijscheck on huurcommissie.nl or the Loket Wonen in Utrecht. In case of uncertainty: hire a tenancy law attorney via the Juridisch Loket Utrecht (subsidised via legal aid). These exceptions prevent unfair increases in the busy Utrecht rental market and promote fairness between tenants and landlords.