Maintenance & Minor Repairs for Tenants Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands you want to know who is responsible for maintenance and minor repairs, what you can expect from your landlord and when you must pay yourself. This article explains in plain language which maintenance obligations landlords have under tenancy law, which minor repairs are usually the tenants responsibility and how to submit a repair request in a smart and documented way. You will also read what steps to take if the landlord does not respond, when to involve the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) or the cantonal court, and which evidence matters in a dispute. The guidance is practical and intended for tenants without legal expertise in the Netherlands.
Who pays: landlord or tenant?
The basic rule is that the landlord is responsible for durable living conditions and major repairs, such as the roof, foundation, heating system and pipes. The tenant is often responsible for small day-to-day maintenance and minor repairs resulting from normal use. In cases of doubt, check your rental agreement and the scale of the repair.
- Minor repairs from normal use, like door handles or loose tiles, may be the tenants responsibility.
- Major repairs to structural elements and essential installations are usually the landlords responsibility.
- Sometimes the rental agreement sets a maximum cost limit for minor repairs; always check this.
- Always keep photos and correspondence as evidence for repair requests or disputes.
How to report a repair request
Report defects immediately to your landlord or manager and give a clear description, location and, if possible, photos. Ask for a timeframe for completion and note the date of the report. If it is urgent (no heating in winter, leak), stress this and request immediate action.
If the landlord does not respond
If there is no response or solution, send a registered or written reminder and give a reasonable deadline. If there is still no solution, consider reporting to the Rent Tribunal or taking legal action via the cantonal court. Documentation, photos and clear dates support your case.
FAQ
- Who pays for a broken central heating boiler?
- The landlord is generally responsible for the operation of the heating system, unless the rental agreement states otherwise.
- When are minor repairs my responsibility?
- Minor repairs due to normal daily use can be the tenants responsibility; check the rental agreement for fixed rules or limits.
- What can I do about neglected maintenance?
- Document the problem, report it in writing and consider the Rent Tribunal or legal action if the landlord does not act.
How-To
- Record the issue, date and collect photos as evidence.
- Contact your landlord and request written confirmation of receipt.
- Submit a written repair request with a reasonable deadline for completion.
- If there is no solution, consider the Rent Tribunal or the cantonal court for legal steps.
Key takeaways
- Landlords are responsible for major and structural repairs.
- Tenants often cover minor daily maintenance per the rental agreement.
- Evidence and written reports are crucial in disputes.
