Market & trends

Dutch rental indexation 2026: what landlords need to know

The maximum rental indexation for 2026 has been set. Here is what it means for free-sector rental properties, social housing, and how to apply the increase correctly.

Bart Korpershoekby Bart Korpershoek2 min readUpdated April 20, 2026
Keys and rental contract with percentage indicator showing annual rent increase

What is the rental indexation for 2026?

According to the Dutch government and Vereniging Eigen Huis, the legislator sets a maximum rent increase every year. For 2026 it is based on the consumer price index (CPI) plus a fixed surcharge. In practice this means you may raise the base rent by a maximum percentage, depending on the segment.

SegmentMethod2026 maximum
Free sectorCPI + surchargelegally set
Social housingIncome-dependentper government rules
LiberalisedContract + legislationsituation-specific

How do you apply the indexation correctly?

A correctly applied indexation follows five steps:

  1. Check the rental contract for the indexation clause and chosen methodology
  2. Determine the indexation date (usually the anniversary of the rental agreement)
  3. Calculate the new rent based on the maximum allowed increase
  4. Send a notice at least two months before the effective date
  5. Update your administration in your property management system

Common mistakes

Three mistakes keep coming back with landlords who handle their indexation themselves:

  • Late notice which delays the indexation
  • Wrong reference moment for the CPI (using August instead of June)
  • Forgetting tenants on reduced income about their rights

Why automation pays off

One missed indexation on a €1,500/month property costs you €50 to €100 per year in lost rent. With ten properties that adds up to thousands per year.

With software like Propty the indexation is automatic:

  • announced at the right moment
  • calculated against the right CPI reference
  • applied to all invoices
  • recorded in the tenant file

For portfolios from 3 properties it pays back within the first year. Read more about how this works in our knowledge base on rental indexation.

Summary

Rental indexation is a small annual ritual with significant financial impact. Make sure you are on time, follow the right method, and that communication to tenants is careful. Automating is almost always worth it for portfolios from three properties and up.

For questions about the right application for your contract: contact us or schedule a short demo.

rental indexationtenancy lawrental contractregulation

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Dutch rental indexation 2026: what landlords need to know · Propty Blog