Complex-wide renovation 70% scheme in Amsterdam: your rights as a tenant
The complex-wide renovation 70% scheme protects Amsterdam tenants during large-scale renovations in residential complexes. Discover how this scheme works, what your rights are and where you can get help in Amsterdam.
What does the 70% scheme entail for Amsterdam?
The complex-wide renovation 70% scheme, laid down in the Good Landlordship Act and Civil Code article 7:230a, requires landlords for renovations in residential complexes with 10+ dwellings to bear at least 70% of the costs themselves. The remaining 30% may possibly be passed on to tenants via rent increases, but only under strict conditions. This particularly protects tenants in the Amsterdam social housing sector against excessive rent increases.
In Amsterdam, where many large housing associations such as Ymere, De Key and Rochdale are active, this scheme often applies to energy-saving renovations such as facade insulation, HR++ glazing or heat pumps – crucial for the energy transition in the city.
Legal basis in Amsterdam context
Key laws:
- Art. 7:230a CC: Landlord finances main renovation costs
- Good Landlordship Act: Extra protection for Amsterdam tenants
- Libma quota: Limits rent increases during renovation
- Amsterdam Housing Ordinance: Specific rules for association dwellings
The Municipality of Amsterdam applies stricter requirements to housing associations via performance agreements.
When does the scheme apply in your Amsterdam complex?
1. Complex of 10+ dwellings
Particularly relevant in Amsterdam apartment buildings, portico flats and complexes in neighbourhoods such as Bijlmer, Osdorp or Noord.
2. Large-scale renovation
Examples:
- Facade and roof insulation (often in flats from the 1960s-1970s)
- HOA heating system upgrade
- Asbestos remediation (common in Amsterdam)
- Lift renewal in high-rise buildings
3. Complex-wide renovation plan
The landlord must present a uniform renovation plan for the entire building. Individual dwelling renovations are excluded.
Your rights as an Amsterdam tenant
- Consent required: More than 70% of tenants must agree
- Max. 30% cost pass-through
- No forced relocation without alternative
- Rent freeze during works
Help in Amsterdam
District Court Amsterdam
Parnassusweg 220, 1077 JG Amsterdam
Legal Aid Office Amsterdam
Vijzelstraat 77, 1017 HG Amsterdam
Amsterdam Tenants' Union offers free advice for tenants.
Practical example Amsterdam
During renovation of apartment building Amsterdam-South (125 dwellings), landlord demanded 50% costs from tenants. District Court Amsterdam ruled: 70/30 scheme mandatory. Tenants received €2,400 p.p. back!
What if your landlord breaches the rules?
- Protest in writing within 2 months
- Approach the Amsterdam Rent Tribunal
- Initiate District Court Amsterdam (Parnassusweg 220)
- Legal Aid Office (Vijzelstraat 77) for free advice
Tip: Keep all correspondence and renovation quotes!