Rent Adjustment After Improvements in Amsterdam: Rules and Objection

In Amsterdam, where the rental market is under high pressure due to housing shortage, landlords may often increase the rent for improvements such as a new kitchen. But which rules apply specifically in the capital and how do you object? This article highlights the legal frameworks with local accents.

What are improvements in the Amsterdam context?

Improvements are structural adjustments that increase the value of the property, distinguished from maintenance (article 7:243 BW). In Amsterdam, with many social rental properties via housing associations such as Ymere or De Key, the Rent Committee must always approve the adjustment. Think of energy-saving measures such as HR++ glass, often stimulated by the municipality's sustainability plans.

Procedure for increase in the city

The landlord must inform you at least two months before the effective date, in accordance with the Amsterdam tenant information obligation. You can file an objection with the Rent Committee or the district court in Amsterdam within six weeks. For liberalized rent in neighborhoods such as the Jordaan, the reasonableness test applies via article 7:253 BW, with extra attention to the high local market prices.

Rights of the Amsterdam tenant

Do you refuse to agree? The court tests the increase for fairness, taking into account Amsterdam's housing shortage. Costs of improvements, such as an elevator in a canal house or roof insulation, may not be fully passed on to the tenant. Municipal subsidies for sustainability can limit the increase. Document everything and consult the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam for a strong objection. (248 words)