Heat Supply and Tenant Rights in the Netherlands

As a tenant you may have questions about heat supply or district heating in the Netherlands and what the Warmtewet means for your rented home. This article explains in clear language the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords, how to check costs and metering methods, and which steps you can take when bills are unclear or heating is inadequate. We cover when you can involve the Rent Tribunal or other authorities, which documents are useful as evidence, and practical tips to prevent or resolve disputes. After reading you will know which actions are feasible within reasonable timeframes and where to find official help.

What is heat supply and the Warmtewet?

Heat supply means that heat (for example for heating and hot tap water) is delivered centrally to homes, often via district heating or a heat network. In the Netherlands the Warmtewet regulates aspects of tariffs and consumer protection for heat supplied to customers.^[1]

Tenant rights and obligations

As a tenant you are entitled to a functioning heating system and clear, verifiable costs. The landlord must clearly state how heat is calculated and which costs appear on the service or energy bill. Keep meter readings, invoices and correspondence so you have evidence in case of dispute.^[2]

• Check your monthly breakdowns and request clarification for unclear items.
• Photograph or note meter readings at the start and end of the year.
• Ask in writing about the metering methods used and any allocation keys.
• File a timely written complaint with your landlord before pursuing formal steps.

If you have a dispute

In case of disagreement over tariffs or errors in billing, first contact the landlord in writing and give a reasonable period for correction. If that does not work, you can involve the Rent Tribunal for rent and service charge issues or go to the cantonal court for more complex legal disputes.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

When does my heat supply fall under the Warmtewet?

The Warmtewet usually applies if you receive heat from a commercial supplier and pay a separate fee; consult the legal text for specific situations.^[1]

Can I reclaim heat supply charges if they are incorrect?

First file a complaint with your landlord; if there is no reasonable solution, you can ask the Rent Tribunal or the court to correct the charges.^[2]

Which documents help with a complaint?

Meter readings, annual statements, lease or service contracts and written communication with the landlord usually form strong evidence.

How to act

1. Record and photograph current meter readings and keep previous statements.
2. Send a clear written complaint to your landlord with a requested response timeframe.
3. Collect evidence such as invoices, photos and correspondence.
4. If the landlord does not cooperate, file a case with the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice.
5. Follow any deadlines strictly and keep copies of all requests and responses.

Key points

• Communicate in writing so you retain evidence.
• Know your rights and refer to official bodies when needed.

Help and support

• Wetten.nl — search Dutch legislation
• Huurcommissie — information and procedures for tenants
• Government.nl — official public information

1. [1] Wetten.nl — Warmtewet (consolidated text)
2. [2] Huurcommissie.nl — Information and forms
3. [3] Government.nl — Public information on energy and housing