Sharing with insurer: tenant rights in the Netherlands

As a tenant you may worry when personal data about you ends up with an insurer. In the Netherlands the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) protects personal data and there are also rules in tenancy law such as Book 7 of the Civil Code; these rules determine when sharing is permitted and which legal bases are required.^[1] This article explains in clear language when sharing with an insurer is allowed, what rights tenants have, and which practical steps you can take to check your data, object, or seek help.^[3]

What does sharing with an insurer mean?

Sharing with an insurer means that a landlord, manager or third party passes on information such as damage details, incident reports or contact details to an insurer for assessing a claim or coverage. Sometimes this is necessary to handle a damage claim; other times it may concern data that affects premium or coverage. In all cases there must be a lawful basis under the GDPR and the processing must be proportional.

When can your landlord share data?

• For damage claims to handle compensation or coverage.
• When there is suspicion of fraud or when evidence is relevant to a claim.
• When sharing is necessary for performing the rental contract or based on a legitimate interest balanced against your privacy.
• If there is a legal obligation or court order to provide data.

Privacy bases and consent

The landlord must be able to state a legal basis for processing: consent, performance of the contract, legal obligation or legitimate interest. Stricter rules apply to sensitive personal data. If you do not see a clear basis, you can request in writing which data was shared and why.

What can you do if your data was shared?

If you suspect your personal data was shared without a valid reason, follow practical steps to exercise your rights and limit harm. Below is a short action plan with actions tenants can often take.

1. Check your tenancy agreement and communications to see which consents or clauses are included.
2. Request in writing which data was shared, with whom and on what legal basis.
3. Keep evidence such as emails, photos of damage and dated correspondence.
4. If disagreement persists, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice to enforce your rights.^[2]

FAQ

Can my landlord share my personal data with an insurer without my consent?

Not automatically; sharing is only allowed with a valid legal basis (such as performance of the tenancy agreement, legal obligation or a carefully balanced legitimate interest). In many cases the sharing falls under the GDPR and you can request disclosure.

Can I object if my data has been shared?

Yes, you can object and request correction or deletion if the processing is incorrect or unlawful. Start with a written request to the landlord and keep evidence of your complaint.

Where can I get help in a dispute about shared data?

You can seek information and assistance from official bodies and, for tenancy disputes, contact the Rent Tribunal or a legal adviser.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents, photos and messages about the incident.
2. Send a brief written request to your landlord asking which data was shared and on what basis.
3. Try to resolve the matter by discussion first; note phone calls and agreements in writing.
4. If discussion does not help, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice to assert your rights.^[2]

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Wetten.overheid.nl - Civil Code Book 7 (Tenancy Law)
• [2] Huurcommissie.nl - Information and forms for rent disputes
• [3] Government.nl - National information on privacy and data protection

1. [1] Wetten.overheid.nl - Civil Code Book 7 (Tenancy Law)
2. [2] Huurcommissie.nl - Information and forms for rent disputes
3. [3] Government.nl - National information on privacy and data protection