Reasonable Home Adjustments for Tenants in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, requesting or making reasonable adjustments to your home can require sensitive and technical legal steps. Many tenants do not know exactly what rights they have, which adjustments qualify as reasonable, or who should bear the costs. This article explains in plain language the mistakes commonly made with adjustments — from insufficient evidence and unclear payment agreements to not involving the Rent Tribunal or court in time. You will receive practical steps to prevent problems, which documents are important and how to formally submit a request in the Netherlands so your rights remain protected. Read on for concrete tips and model steps.

What are reasonable adjustments?

Reasonable adjustments are changes to a rental property that are necessary so a person with a disability or medical need can use the home safely and independently. This can range from a simple grab rail in the bathroom to threshold ramps or other permanent and temporary modifications. Whether an adjustment is "reasonable" depends on functionality, costs and the allocation of responsibilities between tenant and landlord under tenancy law and relevant legislation.^[1]

Common mistakes

• No evidence (evidence) of medical necessity submitted
• Making adjustments without a clear agreement on who pays
• No written request or missing form (form) sent to the landlord
• Insufficient photos or documentation (evidence) of the situation before and after the adjustment
• Responding too late to letters or deadlines
• Forgetting to contact the Rent Tribunal in case of dispute (court)

What to document

For a strong request always record: the medical or functional reason, quotes or cost estimates, photos of the situation and the written request to the landlord. Note dates of phone conversations and keep all delivery receipts. If the landlord refuses or does not offer a reasonable solution, you can use the evidence when applying or disputing with the Rent Tribunal or the court.^[2]

Practical steps to avoid mistakes

Important preparation

Start by collecting medical statements or professional reports that support the necessity. Also request at least one non-binding quote or cost estimate for the adjustment.

Communication with the landlord

• Submit a clear written request stating description, reasons and attachments
• Attach evidence: medical documents, photos and quotes
• Ask for an acknowledgment of receipt and record follow-up appointments

How-To

1. Check your rental agreement and relevant laws to see what is stated about adjustments and costs.
2. Gather medical statements, professional reports and photos as evidence of the necessity.
3. Submit a written request to the landlord including a description, quotes and evidence. Mention a reasonable response period.
4. Monitor deadlines and respond quickly to correspondence; ask for clarification if anything is unclear.
5. In case of refusal or disagreement: consult the Rent Tribunal or prepare a complaint with the competent authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord refuse adjustments?

The landlord can refuse if the adjustment is unreasonable due to disproportionate costs or serious disadvantage, but must motivate the decision and consider alternatives.

Who pays for reasonable adjustments?

It depends: sometimes the landlord pays, sometimes the tenant, or a shared solution; determination depends on evidence and agreements.

What if the landlord does not respond?

Send a reminder, keep proof of sending and consider contacting the Rent Tribunal or pursuing legal steps if there is no reasonable response.^[2]

Help and support

• Rent Tribunal - information and forms
• [1] Wetten.nl - Civil Code Book 7 (tenancy law)
• [3] Government.nl - Guidance for tenants

1. [1] Wetten.nl - Burgerlijk Wetboek Boek 7
2. [2] Huurcommissie - Procedure en formulieren
3. [3] Government.nl - Information for tenants