Exceptions to Income-Dependent Rent Increases in Amsterdam

Not all tenants in Amsterdam are subject to income-dependent rent increases. Important exceptions apply to new-build properties in neighbourhoods such as Amsterdam Nieuw-West or Noord (first two years after completion), temporary contracts shorter than two years – common due to the high demand for starter homes – and rent prices below the liberalisation threshold (€808.06 in 2024) in the regulated sector. Due to the Amsterdam housing shortage, many tenants in the social rental sector are protected by this. In the event of income reduction, retirement or job loss in the city, the increase can be moderated or fully waived via the Huurcommissie. In the event of divorce in Amsterdam, only the income of the principal tenant is taken into account. Expats with foreign income, popular in the Zuidas, can often avoid the scheme provided this is proven with documents. During the corona crisis (2020-2022), temporary bans on increases applied, which saved many Amsterdammers. Landlords in the city may not increase rents in the case of ongoing disputes at the Huurcommissie or in the event of payment arrears. Use the Huurprijscheck on huurcommissie.nl or check local tools from the municipality of Amsterdam. If in doubt: engage a tenancy law lawyer via the Juridisch Loket in Amsterdam (often subsidised). These rules prevent unfair price increases in the overstretched Amsterdam rental market and promote affordable housing.