Fewer Barriers for Shared Housing in Utrecht

Councilor Dennis de Vries (Housing): “Like the rest of the Netherlands, housing demand in Utrecht is high. Therefore, we are also looking at how we can better utilize existing homes. For example, by encouraging residents who have a spare room to sublet it to people looking for housing. For residents on welfare, this can be quite difficult, as their benefits can be reduced. An example of how laws and regulations can hinder practical goals. This way, we certainly wont solve the housing shortage. I am very pleased that Utrecht has managed to lower this barrier. In the hope – or, better said: the expectation – that we can help a substantial number of people who currently have no roof over their heads find a home.” 

The municipality makes this possible by allowing monthly income from subletting and lodging up to €500 to be exempt; currently, that is still €400. Extra income that would normally be deducted from the welfare benefits. This is the maximum amount allowed by the tax authorities. This way, the municipality aims to expand opportunities for (temporary) housing for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. It is one of the many measures the municipality is implementing in the fight against the housing shortage in Utrecht. The project Under the Roof is one of the initiatives aimed at matching (at-risk) homeless individuals with people offering a room. 

The new amounts will apply from August 2025. This meets the councils request to remove financial barriers and further encourage shared housing. In this way, existing homes can be used more effectively. The new policy measure is outlined in the report on the realization of social housing, which the council has sent to the council today.