Maximum Heat Charges for Tenants in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands you want to know the maximum you may pay for heat supply and how consumption is calculated. This guide explains in plain language which charges are allowed under the Heat Act, which items can be passed on as service costs, and when you can contest a bill. You will also learn which documents and meter readings are important, how to spot discrepancies, and what steps the Rent Tribunal or court can take in a dispute. We give practical tips for checking bills and collecting evidence if you suspect an incorrect settlement. The article also provides contact points and links to official sources that help tenants in the Netherlands further.

What does the Heat Act regulate?

The Heat Act sets conditions under which suppliers may charge tariffs for heat supply and district heating. The law protects consumers and ensures tariffs are transparent and reasonable for tenants in the Netherlands.^[1]

What to check on the bill?

Always check the specification: which fixed costs and which consumption charges appear on the invoice? Pay attention to allocations via service costs in the rent.

• Check the indicated rate per unit (e.g. per m3 or per GJ) and compare with your contract.
• Keep meter readings, photos of the meter and intermediate readings as evidence for your consumption.
• Note if the landlord passes on consumption via service costs and whether this is transparently specified.
• Compare your consumption with previous periods to spot unusual increases.

What does the Rent Tribunal do and when to involve it?

The Rent Tribunal can assess whether the charges and service costs are reasonable and whether the allocation of heat costs is correct. If you cannot agree with your landlord, you can submit a request to the Rent Tribunal for a decision.^[2]

Practical tips when you suspect an incorrect settlement

Follow these steps to review the settlement and, if necessary, lodge an objection.

• Check whether the applied rate matches what is stated in your rental agreement or with the supplier.
• Gather evidence: invoices, contract, meter readings and photos.
• Ask your landlord or the heat supplier for a written explanation and request a detailed calculation.
• File a complaint or request with the Rent Tribunal if you do not find a solution and attach your evidence.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Heat Act?

The Heat Act is a Dutch regulation that sets requirements for tariffs and information of heat suppliers and protects consumers against unreasonable costs.^[1]

Can my landlord simply charge higher rates?

A landlord or supplier must be able to justify rates. Unreasonable or unclear rates can be challenged at the Rent Tribunal.^[2]

How do I object to a settlement?

Document your claim, first ask the landlord for an explanation, and if in dispute submit a request to the Rent Tribunal with all evidence.

How-To

1. Read your rental agreement and tariff specification carefully and note which rate applies.
2. Record current meter readings and save photos; keep all invoices and correspondence.
3. Request a written explanation from your landlord or the heat supplier and ask for a detailed calculation.
4. Submit a complaint or request to the Rent Tribunal if no solution is found and include your evidence.^[2]

Help and Support

• Contact Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie)
• Forms and procedures (Huurcommissie)
• Civil Code Book 7 (Wetten.nl)

1. [1] Wetten.nl — Civil Code Book 7
2. [2] Huurcommissie.nl — Procedures and forms
3. [3] Government.nl — Official information on energy and legislation