Service Charges and Rent Increases in Regulated Rentals in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, service charges are separate from the basic rent increase in the regulated sector, where many social housing properties are located, such as in the Jordaan or Bijlmer. Landlords like Ymere or De Alliantie may index these charges annually, but solely based on documented increases, such as higher energy costs due to municipal sustainability requirements or maintenance of listed buildings. You are entitled to a specification by 1 July, including an advance payment and final settlement. If you refuse to pay due to lack of clarity, file a complaint directly with the Rent Tribunal in Amsterdam. In Amsterdam’s social housing, service charges may not exceed 15% of the basic rent, with additional focus on strict enforcement by the municipality against excessive fees in neighborhoods like De Pijp or Oud-West. For tendered properties, a transparency provision applies through tender contracts with local housing associations. In the transitional sector, cost increases are limited to proven inflation, taking into account Amsterdam’s high property market pressure. Housing allowance partially covers service charges, but check the current amounts on the City of Amsterdam’s website. In case of a dispute, the court rules on reasonableness, often referring to local guidelines. Keep invoices and compare them with neighbors in your Owners’ Association (VvE) or neighborhood app. Even during COVID-19, relaxations applied, but now there is stricter control by the Amsterdam Rent Team on excessive charges. This helps prevent unexpected cost increases in this expensive rental market.