ROTTERDAM, 18 December 2024 – Rotterdam’s housing corporations, tenant organisations, and the municipality have established clear agreements regarding collaboration on housing renovation and demolition projects. The framework, outlined in the new city-wide social statute, seeks to ensure tenants’ involvement and support during these processes.
Agreements under the social statute
The social statute (stedelijk sociaal statuut), signed this week, defines the roles, rights, and responsibilities of tenants, housing corporations, and the municipality in renovation or demolition projects. Key measures include:
- Stay close guarantee (Blijf in de buurt garantie): Tenants can remain in their neighbourhood if they wish.
- Regret clause (spijtoptantenregeling): Tenants dissatisfied with relocation can return to their original area when possible.
- Rent adjustment period: A three-year transitional period is provided for tenants facing increased rent after renovations.
The agreement will be implemented initially through three pilot projects with different housing corporations. Feedback from these projects will inform future improvements.
Collaboration with tenants at the centre
Laurie Hermanns, chair of the Common Consultation of Tenant Organisations (Gemeenschappelijk Overleg Huurdersorganisaties, GOH), described the statute as “a big step in the right direction for many Rotterdammers.” She added: “For years, residents were powerless when decisions about the renovation or demolition of their homes were made. Now, the involvement of tenants has been arranged, along with guarantees like the regret clause and the Stay Close guarantee. Over the coming years, we’ll gain experience through three pilot projects, where tenants will have full say and independent support. These experiences will help us refine the statute’s practical application.”
Hedy van den Berk, chair of housing corporation Havensteder, said: “I am proud of what we’ve achieved together with tenants. Tenants rightly feel deeply connected to their home and environment, and in the statute, we’ve agreed on how to safeguard that connection.”
Miriam Hoekstra-van der Deen, chair of Woonstad Rotterdam, added: “This is a solid foundation that ensures tenants have a say in what happens to their homes. Everyone who contributed deserves recognition.”
Wethouder Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Housing, and Building) stated: “Renovation or demolition has a major impact on tenants’ lives. This statute provides clarity about their rights. By making clear agreements about guidance and support during these periods, we aim to ensure that tenants can once again enjoy their home and surroundings after such a significant change.”
Alderman Chantal Zeegers signs the Citywide Social Statute. Photography: Rhalda Jansen
Independent tenant support
Tenants and organisations now have the right to independent support to navigate these changes. A municipal list of approved organisations will be created, allowing tenants to select their preferred advisers. These advisers will remain independent of housing corporations and the municipality, with their costs covered by corporations.
Pilot projects to test new collaboration methods
Housing corporations Havensteder, Woonstad, and Hef Wonen will conduct trials enabling tenants to participate in decision-making regarding renovations or demolitions. The results will determine whether this approach can be expanded to other projects.
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