Legal short-stays for tenants in the Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands, offering a rental for short stays can be useful, but there are rules and risks involved. This guide explains step by step what you must do to arrange short stays legally: from checking local permits and adjusting the rental agreement to arranging liability, taxes and cleaning arrangements. You will receive practical tips on communicating with your landlord or homeowners association, which supporting documents to keep and when the Rent Tribunal or municipality may become involved. The explanation is intended for non-legal readers and helps tenants organise safe, compliant short stays across the Netherlands.
What does "short stays" mean?
"Short stays" refers to temporary rental of a dwelling for several nights up to several weeks. Whether this is allowed depends on your rental agreement and local rules; tenancy law is largely set out in the Civil Code Book 7 [1].
Tenants are entitled to a safe and habitable home.
Check local rules and permits
Many municipalities impose conditions or permits for short stays. Always check local policy and whether notification or a permit is required with your municipality [3].
Some municipalities prohibit or restrict short stays.
Rental agreement and permission
Read your rental agreement carefully: does it explicitly allow or prohibit renting for short stays? Often written permission from the landlord or the homeowners association is required. Keep all written communication as evidence.
Always request permission in writing if your contract requires it.
Insurance, liability and taxes
Ensure your insurance covers guest use and any damage. Also check tax implications if you generate income. In disputes over rent or service charges the Rent Tribunal may have a role [2].
A clear insurance policy prevents uncertainty in damage claims.
Practical checklist
- Check application requirements with the municipality and permit rules.
- Arrange deposit (borg) and clear agreements about rent and payments.
- Fix repair/maintenance arrangements and check insurances.
- Keep evidence such as photos, messages and payment receipts.
Key takeaways
- Always check local permits before hosting guests.
- Clarify deposit and payment terms in the contract.
- Document communication and incidents carefully.
FAQ
- Am I allowed as a tenant to rent a property for short stays without permission?
- Usually you need permission from the landlord or it must be stated in the rental agreement; local rules may impose additional restrictions.
- Can the Rent Tribunal help with disputes about service charges or damage?
- The Rent Tribunal deals with rent and service charges, but not all issues; in some cases the subdistrict court is required.[2]
- Which documents should I keep when offering short stays?
- Keep reservation communication, payment receipts, photos of the property condition and any written permissions.
How-To
- Step 1: Check municipal rules and submit an application or permit request if needed.
- Step 2: Request written permission from your landlord or homeowners association and keep contact records.
- Step 3: Record financial agreements, including deposit (borg) and payments.
- Step 4: Arrange insurance and agree on repair/maintenance responsibilities.
- Step 5: Document evidence: photos at check-in/check-out and keep communications.
- Step 6: Consult the Rent Tribunal or municipality if disputes or uncertainties remain.
Help and Support
- Contact Rent Tribunal (questions about rent and service charges)
- Contact municipality for permits
- Laws and rules (Civil Code Book 7)
