Consequences of Exceeding the Rent Liberalisation Threshold in Amsterdam

When the rent in Amsterdam exceeds the liberalisation threshold, the dwelling shifts to the free sector. This has a major impact on tenants and landlords in the city, where housing shortages are high. Tenants lose access to the points system and maximum rent increase percentages, which in Amsterdam leads to rapid increases due to the tight market. Landlords may freely determine and adjust the rent to market-conform rates, often above €2,000 in popular neighbourhoods such as De Pijp or the Jordaan. The 'sitting tenant' clause sometimes still provides regulation upon renegotiation, but this is limited by local pressure on the housing market. Statutory eviction protection lapses in part, allowing landlords to terminate more easily for own use, renovation or sale – a growing issue with Amsterdam's transformation from social to free sector dwellings. Fiscally, the dwelling no longer qualifies as social rent, with consequences for rent allowance and tax deductions. Tenants can lodge an objection with the Rent Tribunal if the price is not market-conform, supported by recent rulings on Amsterdam's overheated market. In 2024, the threshold is €808.06 for independent living spaces, excluding service costs. Landlords must document price assessments, especially with stricter local checks via the Municipality of Amsterdam. This system accelerates the transition to the free sector but increases living costs in the city. The municipality promotes affordable rent via the housing construction programme, but the free sector dominates. Consult Rijksoverheid.nl and Amsterdam.nl for current rules and local initiatives such as the Huurteam Amsterdam.