Throughflow encourages tenants in Leiden above the social income limit to move to the private rental sector. The Housing Act and the Leiden Housing Action Plan 2023-2026 promote this through incentives such as temporary rent freezes or moving allowances up to €5,000, specifically aimed at the tight housing market around Leiden University and the station area.
If your income exceeds €47,699 (2024), you will receive a proposal from the housing association, such as Haag Wonen or DUWO. Refusal may lead to rent increases up to the liberalisation threshold (€1,163). Judicial review via the Rent Tribunal protects against arbitrariness, with extra attention for Leiden students and young professionals.
Advantages of the private sector: greater choice in neighbourhoods such as Professorenbuurt or Roomburg, without income checks. Disadvantages: higher rents without housing benefit, especially in the city centre. Practice in Leiden: approximately 18% successfully throughflow via the local Throughflow Programme, supported by the municipality. Subsidies for starters in mid-range rental, such as the Leiden Housing Construction Impulse project, provide assistance. Consult the National Housing Agreement and the Leiden Housing Vision for updates, and hire an advisor for negotiations with housing associations. (198 words)