Registration Rules for Tenants in the Netherlands

Tourist letting & short-stay (Airbnb) 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

As a tenant in the Netherlands, you may suddenly need to know what registration or notification duties mean, especially for tourist rentals via platforms like Airbnb. This text explains in plain language when you as a tenant must report or register something, which steps you can take, which documents are useful, and who to contact for help. We cover the main rights and obligations, how to collect evidence and which authorities to consult for disputes. The explanation is targeted to tenants dealing with short-term rentals and aims to help make practical choices without legal jargon. This way you know which actions you can take yourself and when professional help is sensible.

What does registration and notification duty mean?

A registration or notification duty means that you or the landlord must provide information to the municipality or a permit authority. For tenants it is important to know whether your provider (or you) must submit a report or form according to local rules or national law [1]. Many municipalities have separate rules for short-term or tourist rentals.

  • If you offer a property for short stays of a few days via platforms like Airbnb, a notification duty may apply.
  • Municipalities sometimes require a registration form or permit application to be completed before renting is allowed.
  • If you receive income from renting, this can affect taxes or tourist levies; keep payment receipts.
  • Rules on privacy, access rights and key handover still apply; discuss and get written agreements with your landlord.
Keep filings, forms and payment receipts in one central place.

What can you do as a tenant?

First check your lease: it often states whether short-term renting is allowed. Inform the landlord in writing and ask for proof of registration if a duty exists. If you disagree about permission or the landlord rents without consultation, note this and take photos or screenshots of ads as evidence. Consult the Rent Tribunal or municipal information if you have a dispute about extra charges or nuisance [2].

  1. Check local rules within 14 days and whether a notification duty applies.
  2. Ask the landlord for a copy of the registration or permit form and keep it.
  3. Keep payment receipts and correspondence about any income or tourist levies.
  4. Contact the Rent Tribunal or the municipality if you cannot resolve the issue yourself.

If you consider legal action, always respond within stated deadlines and seek advice. Often mediation or talking with the landlord is quicker than court. Keep all documents and messages organized: that increases your chances in a dispute.

Documented communication helps resolve conflicts without court proceedings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register if I organize rentals via Airbnb?
Whether registration is required depends on municipal rules and your lease; short-term rental can require registration or notification. Check local rules and keep records of filings and permissions. [1]
What can the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) do for me?
The Rent Tribunal mainly handles disputes about rent levels and service charges; it does not grant permits but can advise on rights and obligations in tenancy disputes. [2]
Where can I find reliable information about rules and permits?
Municipal websites and national government information usually provide up-to-date rules and steps for notifications or permit applications. [3]

How-To

  1. Check your municipality's rules and note any deadlines.
  2. Request and keep copies of registration or permit forms.
  3. Collect evidence: screenshots, ad dates, payment receipts and messages.
  4. Seek help from the Rent Tribunal or the municipality if you cannot resolve the issue.

Help and support


  1. [1] Wetten.nl - Burgerlijk Wetboek Boek 7
  2. [2] Huurcommissie - informatie en procedures
  3. [3] Government.nl - richtlijnen en lokale regelgeving
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Netherlands

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.