Evidence for Co-tenants in the Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands, collecting clear pieces of evidence is important when you discuss co-tenancy, maintenance problems or disputes with your landlord. This article helps tenants step by step to understand which documents are valuable — such as photos, emails, payment receipts and rental agreements — and how to store them clearly. You will also learn when you can use evidence in a complaint to the Rent Tribunal or in summary proceedings, which deadlines are important and which formal steps you can take. The explanation is practical and aimed at tenants without a legal background, with concrete actions to strengthen your position in discussions about co-tenancy in the Netherlands.
What are pieces of evidence?
Pieces of evidence are all documents or files that show what happened in your housing situation: photos of defects, emails and messages, payment receipts and the rental agreement. For co-tenancy, documents that show who paid and who lived in the property are especially useful. Note that a single document rarely proves everything; a combination of photos, timestamps and correspondence strengthens your case.[1]
Which documents to collect?
- Photos of defects (evidence)
- Correspondence with the landlord (file)
- Payment receipts for rent and deposit (rent)
- Rental agreement and inventory list (document)
- Witness statements or declarations from co-tenants (evidence)
How to use evidence in a dispute
Start with a written explanation to the landlord and add your evidence: photos, dates and relevant messages. If you do not get a solution, you can file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or go to the cantonal court; first check which procedure fits your issue and pay attention to deadlines and requirements in Book 7 of the Civil Code.[1] When filing a complaint, state exactly which pieces of evidence you have and that you want them to be considered.[2]
Step-by-step plan
- Collect evidence: photos, emails, payment receipts and contracts (evidence).
- Make copies and organize documents chronologically and digitally (document).
- Contact your landlord first and try to record an agreement (contact).
- If no solution, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or consider the cantonal court (file).
Frequently asked questions
- What does co-tenancy prove?
- Co-tenancy means several people share a rental agreement; evidence shows who paid, who lived in the property and who was responsible for arrangements.
- Which documents does the Rent Tribunal consider?
- The Rent Tribunal considers rental agreements, payment receipts, correspondence and photos of defects; combine everything with a short timeline.
- How do I protect my evidence?
- Keep digital copies in a safe location, note dates and times and keep original documents in a secure place.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal - information and forms
- Wetten.nl - Civil Code Book 7
- Government.nl - Advice for citizens
