Insulation and Windows: Tenant Rights in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands you may face issues with insulation and windows, such as drafts, damp or missing double glazing. It is often unclear who is responsible for repairs or upgrades: the landlord for structural insulation, the tenant for minor alterations. In this article we explain in plain language which maintenance obligations exist under Dutch tenancy law, which steps you can take when there are defects, and when you can involve the Rent Tribunal or a court. You will get practical tips for collecting evidence, making requests to the landlord and preventing or resolving disputes.

What does the law regulate?

As a tenant you have the right to a well-maintained and habitable home. The Civil Code (Book 7) sets out maintenance obligations of landlords and tenants and when repairs are required^[1].

Common problems and who pays

Problems with insulation and windows vary: missing double glazing, drafts, condensation or leaks. In many cases the landlord is responsible for structural insulation and replacement of windows; the tenant is often responsible for minor repairs and damage from personal use. If responsibility is unclear, you can send a written request and collect evidence such as photos and reports^[2].

• Document the problem with photos and notes (evidence).
• Send a written request to the landlord with a clear description (notice).
• Request repair or replacement and ask for a reasonable timeframe (repair).
• Discuss who pays the costs before carrying out work yourself (payment).
• Contact the Rent Tribunal or legal advice if the dispute continues (contact).

Practical steps and temporary solutions

For minor drafts or damp you can take temporary measures such as draught strips or dehumidifiers, but consult the landlord before making structural changes. If you incur costs without permission you may not be reimbursed. For general guidance and tenant information you can also consult national government publications^[3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for insulation or window replacement?

Usually the landlord is responsible for structural work; small repairs are often the tenant's expense. If in doubt, you can consult the Rent Tribunal^[2].

May I carry out insulation measures myself?

Small, non-permanent improvements (such as draught strips) are generally allowed, but permanent changes or work on frames and facades require the landlord's permission.

How do I involve the Rent Tribunal?

You can file a complaint via the Rent Tribunal website and complete the form; keep evidence and copies of your requests to the landlord^[2].

How-To

1. Document the problem with photos, date and description (evidence).
2. Send a written and clear request to the landlord asking for repair (notice).
3. Give the landlord a reasonable period to respond, for example 14 days (days).
4. If there is no solution, submit a request or complaint to the Rent Tribunal (application).
5. As a last step the subdistrict court may be involved for more complex disputes (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• Wetten.nl — Civil Code Book 7
• Rent Tribunal — information and forms
• Government.nl — general tenancy law guidance

1. [1] Wetten.nl — Civil Code Book 7 (tenancy law)
2. [2] Rent Tribunal — information and forms
3. [3] Government.nl — tenancy law information