Calculate reasonable subrent for tenants Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands you may sometimes sublet your home wholly or partly. Calculating a reasonable subrent is important to avoid disputes and to comply with the tenancy agreement and the law. This guide explains step by step which costs and legal factors you should consider — such as the main rent, service charges, utilities and market comparisons — and when you need permission from the landlord. You will get practical tips on documentation, which pieces of evidence are relevant and where to find official help in the Netherlands.[3] The text uses plain language, explains terms and gives concrete actions tenants can take if there is uncertainty or a dispute.
When is subletting reasonable?
Subletting is reasonable when the amount is economically and contractually defensible, and not contrary to the tenancy agreement or the law as laid down in Book 7 of the Civil Code.[1] Important criteria are landlord permission, the share of the space and whether the requested price matches comparable rooms.
In many cases the tenancy agreement determines whether subletting is allowed.
Factors that affect the subrent
- Main rent and service charges (rent): the starting point for your calculation.
- Utilities (water, gas, electricity): divisible by usage.
- Market rent and comparable rooms nearby (rent): use comparisons to assess reasonableness.
- Share of private and common areas: determine the percentage share of the rented room.
- Permission and contractual restrictions: check clauses in the tenancy agreement.
Keep all agreements in writing and keep copies of mutual arrangements.
Example calculation
Example: main rent €900, including service charges €100, room occupies 25% of the apartment.
- Step 1 (rent): Base share for room = (900 / 100) * 25 = €225.
- Step 2 (rent): Allocate service charges proportionally = (100 / 100) * 25 = €25.
- Step 3 (utilities): Add estimated share of utilities, for example €30.
- Result: reasonable subrent ≈ €280 per month, check against market rent.
Always check that this amount aligns with comparable rooms in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I sublet without permission?
- In most cases you need permission from the landlord; consult Book 7 of the Civil Code [1] and your tenancy agreement.
- What does the Rent Tribunal do in subletting disputes?
- The Rent Tribunal can mediate or issue a binding opinion on reasonable costs and service charges [2].
- Which documents should I keep?
- Keep the tenancy agreement, payment receipts, photos of the room condition and any written permission from the landlord.
How-To
- Read your tenancy agreement and note clauses on subletting.
- Make a cost overview: main rent, service charges and utilities.
- Determine the percentage share of the room relative to the dwelling.
- Communicate in writing with the landlord and request permission if necessary.
- If there is a dispute, seek help from the Rent Tribunal or the court [2].
Respond within legal deadlines if you want to involve the Rent Tribunal.
Key Takeaways
- Document every agreement in writing as evidence.
- Check contractual limits before allowing someone to move in.
Help and Support / Resources
- Wetten.nl – Civil Code Book 7
- Rent Tribunal – information and forms
- Government.nl – tenant information
