Calculation of Points in the Rent Points System for Amsterdam Properties

In Amsterdam, where the rental market is extremely tight with long waiting lists for social housing, the maximum rent points system awards points based on objective criteria such as living area, energy index, kitchen facilities, bathroom facilities, central heating, elevator, and monument status. Each category has a specific points system, tailored to the urban reality. For example, a property of 60 m² in Amsterdam-Zuid receives base points for area, plus extra for a modern kitchen, good insulation, or an elevator – crucial in the canal houses of the city center. The total score determines the capital factor, multiplied by a fixed disbursement to calculate the maximum rent. Landlords in Amsterdam must score the property themselves using the official tables from the Central Government, taking into account local factors such as the location near Vondelpark or Central Station. Tenants can check this via the Rent Register or the website of the municipality of Amsterdam. Errors in the calculation often lead to rent reductions, especially in popular neighborhoods like Oost or West. Recently, points for sustainability have been increased, such as for solar panels on roofs or HR++ glass, in line with Amsterdam's climate goals for 2030. The system ensures transparency in the overheated market, but requires accurate measurement of areas in older buildings. In disputes over rent prices in the regulated sector, one turns to the Rent Tribunal for binding advice, or locally to Woonspace for support. This prevents excessive rent prices amid the Amsterdam housing shortage.