Indexation and Adjustment of WWS Maximum Rent in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the WWS maximum rent is indexed annually based on inflation and wage development, as provided for in Article 7:243 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). Landlords in the city may adjust the rent as of 1 July, with a maximum increase of 5.3% in 2024 for social housing in neighbourhoods such as the Jordaan or Bijlmer. Tenants in Amsterdam receive a written proposal from housing associations such as Ymere or De Key; tacit consent does not apply. Lodge an objection within six weeks with the Rent Committee in Amsterdam, which suspends the increase until the ruling. For mid-range rent (WWS-light) in new-build projects around the Zuidas, more lenient rules with higher ceilings apply. The Municipality of Amsterdam may deviate via the Housing Ordinance in cases of quality improvements, such as energy-efficient insulation in older properties along the canals. Tenants with a low income in Amsterdam often qualify for rent allowance via the Tax Authorities, which compensates for the indexation and helps with the high urban rents. Follow the ministerial order in the Bulletin of Acts and Decrees for exact percentages, adjusted to the Amsterdam housing market. Example: a rent of €700 in the Pijp rises to €736.10. Unlawful increases are recoverable via the cantonal court. This mechanism balances the interests of tenants and landlords on Amsterdam's dynamic and tight housing market, where the waiting time for social housing is often 10 years. (218 words)