Netherlands Rent Rules 2026: Private Rent Increases Capped at 4.4%

For liberalised private-sector rental homes in the Netherlands, the maximum annual rent increase in 2026 is 4.4%. The cap is set in law and is due to remain in place until 1 May 2029.

Not every tenancy uses the same rules, so the first step is to understand whether your home is social, midprice or liberalised private rental.

What is the 4.4% cap?

The Dutch government says the maximum increase for liberalised private rents in 2026 is 4.4%, based on inflation of 3.4% plus 1%.

A landlord cannot simply assume every tenancy can be increased by that amount. Your tenancy agreement and the rules for your rental category still matter.

What are the 2026 rent thresholds?

For tenancy agreements starting in 2026, the government lists the social-housing limit at €932.93 per month and the liberalised private-sector threshold at €1,228.07 per month. Midprice housing sits between the relevant regulated limits.

How can tenants check the rent?

Social and midprice housing are linked to a points system that sets a maximum rent based on the quality of the property. The Rent Tribunal, known as the Huurcommissie, offers a Rent Check and can deal with disputes about rent levels, maintenance and service charges.

What newcomers should keep

Keep a copy of your tenancy agreement, rent-increase notices and service-charge statements. If an increase looks wrong, check the official rules before paying a disputed amount or signing a new agreement.

For broader information, see Babylon’s Netherlands country guide.

Official source

Government of the Netherlands: rented housing.