Renting out in Rotterdam

With around 670,000 residents, Rotterdam is the country's second city. Erasmus University and Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences bring many students, and the port draws a large group of workers and internationals. Pressure is highest in the older pre-war neighbourhoods. Since 2024 the rules for small-scale renting have actually been relaxed.

Hospita rental: permit-free

Renting to one or two residents is possible without a conversion permit. Since 1 July 2024 the threshold has been widened, giving you more room to rent out as a hospita.

Renting to more people

From three residents you need a conversion permit. Requirements: at least 18 m² of usable floor area per person on average, a 50-metre distance rule to another property with a permit for four or more residents, a livability test and a separate contract per tenant. Permits for four or more residents are difficult. In several neighbourhoods, including Bergpolder, Carnisse, Kralingen Oost and West, Oud Mathenesse and Tarwewijk, a zero quota applies: no new permits are issued there.

Official info: gemeente Rotterdam: room rental permit (in Dutch). As of June 2026. Always check the current rules with your municipality.

For the national rules, see General rules for room rental. Also check the impact on your municipal taxes.