Appropriate Allocation for Social Rental Housing in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the principle of appropriate allocation obliges housing associations such as Ymere, De Key and Rochdale to allocate 80% of social rental housing to households below the income threshold, with 70% specifically for low incomes. This is laid down in the Housing Act (article 1.1) and must guarantee a fair distribution in a city with extreme housing shortages. Housing is categorised: up to €752.33 (low) and up to €900 (mid). Households with an income below €25,000 receive priority for the lowest segments. The allocation rules fall under the Amsterdam Housing Policy, which is strictly enforced. Waiting lists via WoningNet and Pararius Amsterdam check income in advance, with an average waiting time of 10 years for starters in neighbourhoods such as Bijlmer and Noord. Exceptions apply to urgent cases, such as domestic violence, medical necessity or status holders via the urgent reception in Amsterdam. Housing associations report annually to the Inspectorate SZW. Households that exceed the income threshold are excluded from allocation. In practice, long waiting lists exacerbate the starters' housing crisis; the municipality of Amsterdam offers alternatives such as urgent lists, self-occupation housing or temporary rental via the Woningbedrijf Amsterdam. Consult the website of the municipality of Amsterdam or call 14 020 for personal advice. (218 words)