Exceptions to the WWS Maximum in Amsterdam: When Is It Allowed?

In Amsterdam, not every rent increase above the WWS maximum is prohibited. Landlords may deviate for quality improvements, such as renovations or energy-efficient adaptations in old canal houses or flats in neighbourhoods like the Jordaan or Bijlmer. Article 7:944 BW permits 'improvement increases', provided they are reported to the Huurcommissie and approved by the municipality or housing associations such as Ymere or De Key. For indexation of service costs for Amsterdam parking garages or VvE contributions, nuances apply, especially with the high inflation in the city. For private sector dwellings above the liberalisation threshold (€808.06 in 2024), the maximum applies strictly, but temporary rentals via platforms like Airbnb or new construction in Zuidas projects have more lenient rules. Check your tenancy agreement for clauses on improvements and demand invoices from your landlord. Unmotivated increases? Challenge them via the Huurcommissie or the Juridisch Loket in Amsterdam Oost. The RVO publishes annual exception rules, aligned with the Amsterdam rent index and performance agreements with housing associations. In social housing, the 'agreement percentage' via Woonzorg Nederland often applies. No visible improvements in your Amsterdam dwelling? Then the increase is unlawful. Consult the Huurcommissie Amsterdam or the Woonbond for quick assessment and avoid prolonged disputes in the overheated urban market. This way, you smartly navigate the local legal grey areas.