Utrecht weighs tougher penalties for rogue landlords, looks to Rotterdam model
Utrecht is considering stricter enforcement against illegal landlord practices by studying Rotterdam's fine-based approach.
Utrecht continues to grapple with landlords who violate rental rules, including neglecting maintenance, discriminating against tenants, and charging inflated service fees. Despite the 2023-2024 expansion of the Wet voor goed verhuurderschap, which allows municipalities to sanction housing misconduct, most violations in Utrecht have escaped fines. In Rotterdam, authorities imposed 25 penalties in 2025, ranging from €1,000 to tens of thousands of euros, and saw rent reductions of about €350 per complaint.
The Rotterdam model also relies on early warnings and negotiations, which often resolve issues without court action. Utrecht's council is now examining the feasibility of mirroring this approach, while awaiting a final decision and considering future licensing reforms slated for 2028.
Why it matters
Stronger landlord enforcement could protect tenants and curb rising housing costs in a tight market.
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