Contents Insurance and Tenant Rights in the Netherlands
What does a contents insurance policy cover?
A contents insurance policy usually covers damage to your personal belongings from fire, theft, water damage and sometimes consequential damage. The insured amount, excess and exclusions are stated in your policy. The allocation of costs between tenant and landlord depends on who is responsible for the cause and maintenance. Tenant rights are laid down in the Civil Code Book 7.[1]
Who pays for maintenance and small repairs?
As a tenant you usually pay for small repairs and daily maintenance; the landlord is responsible for major maintenance and structural defects. What qualifies as "small repairs" may be stated in your rental contract. If in doubt, document the situation and seek advice from official bodies.[1]
Practical actions when damage occurs
- Report damage immediately in writing (notice) and send photos.
- Take photos and keep evidence (photo evidence).
- Check your contents policy and note what is covered.
- Involve the Rent Tribunal or court if there is a dispute (court).
How do I report a problem formally?
Send a registered letter or email to your landlord with the date, photos and a clear description. If the landlord does not respond or refuses to repair, you can ask the Rent Tribunal for advice on service charges or involve the subdistrict court for other disputes.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1) Does my contents insurance cover water damage from a leak?
- That depends on your policy and the cause of the leak; sudden leaks are often covered, structural problems usually are not. Consult your insurer and document the damage.
- 2) Who pays for repair of a broken boiler?
- If the boiler is part of the building structure and the problem concerns major maintenance, the landlord is usually responsible; minor faults can fall under small repairs.
- 3) Can I reclaim repair costs myself?
- Only if you have evidence the landlord was negligent and you notified costs according to the rules in advance, you may be able to claim compensation or bring the matter before the court.
Step-by-step plan
- Document damage with date, photos and description (notice).
- Check your policy and note any exclusions (evidence).
- Contact your landlord and allow a reasonable period for repairs (contact).
- If there is no solution, seek advice from the Rent Tribunal or go to the subdistrict court (court).
Help and Support / Resources
- Civil Code Book 7 on Wetten.overheid.nl
- Rent Tribunal – information and forms
- Government.nl – tenant information
