Do you need a permit in Rotterdam?
A frequently asked question. Letting a property takes some preparation. In many cases you do not need a permit to let a property in Rotterdam; in others you do. Each municipality, including Rotterdam, sets its own policy. It is important to be well prepared to avoid surprises. The location and the target tenant group largely determine whether you need a permit.
Room letting permit
The rules on permits for letting individual rooms have changed. Where it was previously possible to let a home to three people without a permit, this is now limited to two residents. You also need this permit if you remain living in the home but let the other rooms. You can find more information about the current situation here. You must submit proof of ownership and the relevant drawings online with your application for a room letting permit. This applies only if you intend to let rooms separately to individual tenants, with rooms that can be locked against access by other residents.
Shared household
There is another option: a shared household, known as “sustainable communal living”. If the space and tenant group meet the requirements, it may be possible to let a property as a shared household without a permit. This can be very profitable, but it is essential to follow the rules. Ask our specialists how this works.
Housing permit
Various neighbourhoods in Rotterdam fall within the ‘housing permit area’. Landlords should bear this in mind when letting homes in Rotterdam. The need for this permit depends on the apartment’s location. A housing permit (HVV) is required for homes offered for rent as either self-contained accommodation (with a private entrance, kitchen and toilet) or non-self-contained accommodation (without a private entrance, or with a kitchen or toilet shared with residents of other homes or rooms). The rent has no effect on this requirement.
Through its housing policy, the municipality regulates room letting in certain neighbourhoods. Some areas are not permitted to have too many rooms available for rent. This allows the municipality to improve the balance in neighbourhoods that are facing challenges, in order to create a better living environment. Students are often granted permission to register in these neighbourhoods, whereas migrant workers may not be. In this way, the municipality influences quality of life in specific areas.
You can apply for a housing permit through the website of the municipality of Rotterdam. The postcode checker shows where an HVV is required. What documents do you need for the application?
A completed housing permit application form and valid proof of identity.
Income
Payslips from your employer(s) for the past three months, as well as bank statements for those months showing that the salary has been paid into your account.
Statements from your benefits agency showing your income for the past three months.
Please note: receiving benefits does not always qualify you for a housing permit.
The most recent profit and loss statement, stamped and signed by your bookkeeper or accountant. This is required if you receive income from self-employment or a business. You must also provide your Chamber of Commerce registration.
A recent payment statement from the Education Executive Agency (DUO, formerly IB-Groep). This is required if you are a student or a certificate of enrolment at an institution of secondary vocational, higher professional or university education.
You must also provide identity and income information for every member of your household who has their own income!
You will receive a response to your application within six weeks. (source: https://www.rotterdam.nl/loket/huisvestingsvergunning/)
Environmental planning permit
Are you planning to buy and renovate a property before letting it? You may need to apply for an environmental planning permit through the municipality of Rotterdam website. The municipality’s self-assessment tool provides further information on building regulations and work that can be carried out without a permit. You must always complete the self-assessment before applying for the permit. The municipality of Rotterdam has compiled a list of all required documents (https://www.rotterdam.nl/loket/documentenkcc/indieningslijst.pdf).
Where there is a reason to do so, the processing period may be extended or temporarily suspended. (Source: https://www.rotterdam.nl/loket/omgevingsvergunning/)