Housing Valuation System and Rent Determination in Utrecht

In Utrecht, the **Housing Valuation System (WWS)** determines the maximum rent in the regulated sector through a points-based system based on surface area, amenities, and the property's WOZ (Valuation of Immovable Property Act) value. Rents exceeding the liberalisation threshold of **€900 (2024)** fall into the free sector, which is common in Utrecht's competitive rental market, such as in Kanaleneiland or Lombok. Landlords in Utrecht may not arbitrarily assign points; always verify your rent via [huurcheck.toeslagen.nl](https://huurcheck.toeslagen.nl) or the **Utrecht Rent Team** service for free advice. For rent increases, the price must remain within the WWS framework, taking into account local factors such as the high WOZ values in neighbourhoods like Wittevrouwen or the city centre. The **Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie)** can conduct a revaluation in case of an objection, with recent adjustments including bonus points for sustainable insulation—relevant to Utrecht's energy-neutral ambitions—and deductions for defects such as damp issues in older buildings. Tenants in Utrecht can challenge the fairness of their rent through the municipality or the **Dutch Tenants' Association (Woonbond)**. In the transitional sector, the WWS remains applicable, preventing excesses in this student city with extensive room rentals. Thus, the system provides transparency and protection for Utrecht tenants across all sectors.