Temporarily renting out your property in Rotterdam: what are the rules (2025)?

Temporary rental may sound appealing, but as of 2025 the rules have become stricter and more specific. If you want to rent out your property in Rotterdam on a temporary basis, you must comply with clear legal requirements. Below we outline the most important rules.

1. Tenant registration

• A maximum of 2 registrations per property is allowed.
• A couple or family counts as one household.

2. Temporary rental contracts

Temporary contracts are only possible in the following cases:

• For students.
• For landlords who temporarily move abroad as expats.

In all other cases: expats are entitled to an indefinite rental agreement.

3. Housing points system & free sector

• The property must achieve at least 187 points in the Dutch housing valuation system.
• Properties with fewer than 187 points fall under regulated rent.
• A points report is mandatory and must be attached to the rental agreement.

4. Energy label

• A valid energy label is required.
• Without an energy label, the property cannot legally be rented out and you risk a fine.

5. Short-Stay rentals

• Only permitted in exceptional cases and with prior approval from the municipality.
• The Dutch Tax Authority must also approve.
• Note: VAT on short-stay rentals will increase from 9% to 21% in 2025.

6. Rental permits in Rotterdam

• In certain districts, such as Charlois, a rental permit is mandatory.
• Renting without a permit can lead to significant fines.

7. “Good Landlord Act” (Wet Goed Verhuurderschap)

• Maximum of 2 months’ rent as a deposit allowed.
• Deposit must be refunded within 14 days after the contract ends.
• Service charges must be fully transparent — advance payments are discouraged.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I temporarily rent out my property to expats in Rotterdam?
Only under specific conditions (students or landlords temporarily abroad). In most cases, expats are entitled to an indefinite rental agreement.

What is the difference between temporary rental and short-stay?

• Temporary rental: 12–24 months, via a standard rental contract.
• Short-stay: Less than 6 months, only allowed with approval from the municipality and the Tax Authority.

Do I need a permit for temporary rental in Rotterdam?
Yes, in some districts such as Charlois, a permit is required. Always check this with the municipality in advance.

Why is a points report mandatory?
It determines whether a property qualifies as a free-sector rental. Without at least 187 points, temporary rental is only possible under regulated rent conditions.

Conclusion

Temporary rental in Rotterdam is strictly regulated in 2025. Without the correct contracts, points report, energy label, or permit, you risk your temporary rental contract automatically being converted into an indefinite lease agreement.

Do you want to know whether your property meets the rules for temporary rental in Rotterdam?
Rotterdam Rental Service guides you from points report to contract and key handover, with market expertise and up-to-date knowledge of the latest legislation.

Get started.