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Rent Reduction for Category A/B/C in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, you can reduce your rent price under **rent reduction category A/B/C** under specific conditions, such as a decrease in income or a changed family situation. Learn how this works in the capital.

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Rent Reduction for Category A/B/C Properties in Amsterdam

Rent reduction category A/B/C in Amsterdam offers tenants of social housing the opportunity to lower their rent in the event of changed circumstances. Think of a declining income due to job loss, retirement, or divorce. This article focuses specifically on the rules in Amsterdam and explains when you are entitled, how to apply, and what steps are required.

What does rent reduction category A/B/C in Amsterdam entail?

Properties in the Netherlands fall into three categories: **category A** (social rent), **category B** (transitional properties), and **category C** (private sector). In Amsterdam, rent reduction primarily targets category A properties from housing associations such as Ymere or De Key. Category B may sometimes qualify, but category C is rare. The Municipality of Amsterdam plays a key role in the assessment.

This is regulated via the **Good Landlordship Act**, **Rent Act**, and local agreements with housing associations. Contact the Municipality of Amsterdam Housing or your landlord for advice.

Legal basis in Amsterdam

  • Rent Act (Civil Code Book 7): Basic rules for rent prices.
  • Good Landlordship Act: Protects vulnerable tenants in the city.
  • Amsterdam Housing Ordinance: Local criteria for rent freeze and reduction.

When can you apply for rent reduction in Amsterdam?

In Amsterdam, you can apply for a reduction if:

  • Your income decreases (unemployment, illness, state pension).
  • Your family situation changes (divorce, children leaving home).
  • The rent exceeds 35% of your income (Amsterdam standard).
  • You are living in a property that is too large for your household.

Overview of categories in Amsterdam

Category Property type Rent reduction possible in Amsterdam? Key authority
A Social rent (< €808.06 in 2024) Yes, via housing association and municipality Municipality of Amsterdam, Ymere
B Transitional property (€808-€1.123) Limited, dependent on housing association Housing association
C Private sector (> €1.123) Rare, only contractual District Court Amsterdam

Tip for Amsterdam: Check your property label via the Land Registry or Huurteam Amsterdam.

Rights and obligations for rent reduction in Amsterdam

Your rights as a tenant

  • Right to prompt assessment within 8 weeks by the housing association.
  • Protection against unfair rent increases via the Rent Tribunal.
  • Rent may not exceed 30-35% of income for social rent.
  • Free advice at Juridisch Loket Amsterdam, Vijzelstraat 77.

How do you apply for rent reduction in Amsterdam?

  1. Gather evidence: income statement, tenancy agreement, WOZ decision.
  2. Submit application to your housing association (e.g., via Mijn Ymere portal).
  3. If refused: proceed to District Court Amsterdam, Parnassusweg 220.
  4. Consider Huurteam Amsterdam for free review.

Practical tips for Amsterdammers

  • Check Rent Check on huurteamamsterdam.nl.
  • For urgent matters: call Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (020-533 0 533).
  • Housing associations such as Amvest or De Alliantie have their own reduction rules.

Contact points in Amsterdam

  • Municipality of Amsterdam Housing: amsterdam.nl/wonen
  • Rent Tribunal: huurcommissie.nl
  • District Court Amsterdam: Parnassusweg 220, 1071 AG
  • Juridisch Loket: Vijzelstraat 77, 1017 HJ