Objection Procedure Against Rent Increase in the Regulated Sector in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, where the rental market in the regulated sector is particularly tight due to high demand for affordable housing, you can object to a rent increase if it does not comply with legal regulations. The landlord must announce the increase in writing, providing a clear statement of the amount, the effective date, and the grounds, taking into account Amsterdam's housing shortage. You have two months from receipt to file an objection via registered letter. In your objection, state why the increase is unjustified, such as exceeding the maximum percentage, missing inflation adjustment, or non-compliance with the liberalisation threshold, which is often debated in Amsterdam. The Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) handles your objection independently and may suspend or moderate the increase, considering local rental pressure in neighbourhoods like the Jordaan, De Pijp, or Nieuw-West. For social housing in Amsterdam, the maximum increase for 2024 is 2.3%, excluding service charges. Supporting documents such as the rental agreement, the announcement, and, if applicable, a valuation report are essential, particularly given frequent discussions about point systems with the municipality. If the landlord does not respond within the set period, you can directly approach the Rent Tribunal at their office in Utrecht, with specific attention to Amsterdam cases. If successful, you will not have to pay the increase retroactively, and you will maintain control over your housing costs in this expensive city. The procedural costs are low, often €25. If you do not win, you may appeal to the subdistrict court in Amsterdam. The municipality provides additional advice on tenancy rights via Wonen in Amsterdam. Always consult the current ministerial regulations and the Rent Tribunal’s website for exact percentages and local nuances.