Impact of the capping limit on rent increases in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, rent increases strongly affect the capping limit and your rent allowance, especially in the tight social housing market. Discover the specific rules for social and private sector properties in the city, and how to object to excessive increases with housing associations such as Ymere or Rochdale.
Rent increase and allowance in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, where the average rent for social housing is around €650, an annual increase (max. 5.3% in 2024) can directly shift the capping limit. The rent allowance compensates up to the quality discount threshold (€808.06 per month), but for higher rents in neighborhoods like Bijlmer or Noord, the allowance decreases if your income reaches the limit. For incomes above €35,000, you often completely lose entitlement to allowance for apartments above €879, which is common in the city due to high real estate prices.
Tenants in the Amsterdam private sector with starter rent (up to €390) benefit from allowance longer, but increases due to the strict self-regulation of the municipality count. Note: in new construction projects around the Oostelijk Havengebied, increases can more quickly affect the allowance.
Legal basis in Amsterdam
Regulated in the Good Landlordship Act, Rent Price Regulation and the local Amsterdam housing ordinance. Rent increases must be announced in writing before May 1, and housing associations must take into account the urban pressure on the housing market. The Rent Tribunal in Amsterdam handles many cases specifically for the region.
What can you do in Amsterdam?
Check your rental contract via the municipality's Woonspace platform and object to unreasonable increases with the Rent Tribunal or through legal assistance from the Juridisch Loket in Oost or West. Use the rent allowance calculator of the Tax Authorities to simulate effects, and check local campaigns such as 'Geen Greed' for current tips against excessive rent increases.