Appropriate Allocation of Social Rental Housing in Amsterdam

Appropriate allocation obliges Amsterdam housing associations such as Ymere, De Key and Rochdale to allocate 80-95% of social rental housing to households with an income below 200% of the social minimum, in accordance with the Housing Act article 1.1. For starters in Amsterdam, a quota of 20% applies to middle-income earners up to €47,699 gross per year. Every tenant undergoes an 'appropriateness test': the rent may not exceed 30% of the (family) income. Upon allocation via WoningNet, the housing association checks your income via DUO and the Tax Authorities. Exceptions in Amsterdam include emergency declarations for medical necessity, informal care or domestic violence, often granted by the municipality. Violations by housing associations can lead to fines of up to €100,000 per dwelling by the Housing Authority. In Amsterdam practice, the rules are stricter due to the extreme housing shortage: waiting times for social rental housing can reach 12-15 years, especially in popular neighbourhoods such as Centrum, De Pijp and Oud-West. Housing associations prioritise Amsterdam residents with local ties, such as a minimum registration period of 10 years with the municipality. As a tenant, you can object to the Rent Tribunal or the Housing Authority. This policy ensures that social rental housing in Amsterdam remains affordable and low-income households receive priority. Test your own appropriateness with the calculation tool on Rijksoverheid.nl or via the Amsterdam Housing Associations site. (248 words)