Can a Landlord Enter? Tenant Guide Netherlands
As a tenant you want to know when and why a landlord may enter your home in the Netherlands. This guide explains step by step which rights tenants have regarding entry, which legal rules apply under Dutch tenancy law, what to do for repairs and how to protect your privacy. We cover common situations such as emergencies, announced inspections and repair works, and provide clear actions to collect evidence and file formal objections. The text is intended for tenants without legal background and refers to official bodies for further steps.[1][2]
What can the landlord do?
The general rule is that a landlord may only enter the home with the tenant's permission, unless a legal exception applies. For exact rules see the Civil Code Book 7.[1]
When can the landlord enter without permission?
- Emergencies posing immediate danger to tenants or the building (e.g., gas leak, major water leak).
- Planned inspections or repairs after notification and with a reasonable notice period.
- Access to carry out urgent repairs affecting the home or safety.
- After a court order or other legal obligation.
What to do if a landlord enters without permission
If a landlord enters without a valid reason or without your permission, note the date and time and collect evidence. Then send a written complaint and request an explanation and remedy. If this does not help, you can involve the Rent Tribunal or the court.[2]
- Take photos and keep messages or emails as evidence.
- Send a short written complaint or formal notice and keep copies.
- Contact the landlord and request a remedy within a reasonable period.
- Consider mediation via official bodies or legal action if the issue continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord enter without permission?
- In most cases no. Only in emergencies, with permission or with a court order may the landlord enter the dwelling.[1]
- How much advance notice must the landlord give?
- There is no fixed period for all cases; for planned inspections or repairs the landlord should normally inform you reasonably in advance, often a few days to a week.
- What can I do about unlawful access?
- Document the incident, inform the landlord in writing and involve the Rent Tribunal or court if necessary.[2]
How-To
- Record the incident with date and time and take photos or videos.
- Send a clear written notice to the landlord requesting explanation or remedy.
- If there is no response, contact the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice about next steps.[2]
- Keep all correspondence and evidence for any potential procedure.
Key takeaways
- A landlord generally cannot enter without tenant permission.
- Urgent repairs or emergencies can justify entry.
- Keep evidence and send written complaints to protect your rights.
Help and support
- [1] wetten.overheid.nl — Burgerlijk Wetboek Boek 7
- [2] huurcommissie.nl — Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie)
- [3] government.nl — Housing guidance
