In 2024, significant changes have been implemented in the Dutch rental market, affecting both tenants and landlords. These changes aim to make renting more affordable and provide tenants with greater security. Here is an overview of the most relevant updates.

Affordable Rent Act: Protection for Middle-Income Earners

On July 1, 2024, the Affordable Rent Act came into effect. This law focuses on regulating rental prices in the mid-segment, meaning that rental homes with a point total of up to 186 according to the Housing Valuation System (WWS) can cost a maximum of €1,157.95 per month. This is intended to ensure that middle-income earners have access to affordable rental housing.

According to Minister Hugo de Jonge of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, this law could lower the rental prices of over 300,000 homes by an average of €190 and will return approximately 113,000 rental homes to the affordable segment​ (Rijksoverheid)​​ (Rijksoverheid)​.

Fixed Rental Contracts Act: More Security for Tenants

Since July 1, 2024, fixed rental contracts have become the norm in the Netherlands. This means that all new rental contracts are for an indefinite period, providing tenants with greater security regarding their living situation. However, there are some exceptions for specific groups, such as students and urgent home seekers, who can still obtain a temporary rental contract for a maximum of two years​ (Rijksoverheid)​​ (Huurcommissie)​.

Maximum Rent Increase in the Regulated Sector

For 2024, the maximum rent increase in the regulated sector has been set at 5.8%, linked to wage developments instead of inflation. This ensures that tenants receive a rent increase in line with their income growth. For tenants at housing associations, the average maximum rent increase is 5.3%, to improve the affordability of rents for people with lower incomes​ (Rijksoverheid)​.

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Conclusion

The recent changes in the Dutch rental market aim to make renting more affordable and provide tenants with greater security. Whether you are a tenant or landlord, it is essential to be aware of these new laws and regulations to be well-prepared for the future.

For more information, visit the websites of Rijksoverheid and the Huurcommissie.