Tenant guide: insulation and windows in the Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands, you may have questions about insulation and windows: who pays for replacement or improvement, what the landlord is expected to do and when you should perform small repairs yourself. This guide explains step by step which rules in tenancy law apply, how to report defects, which pieces of evidence are important and when you can seek help from the Rent Tribunal[2] or the court[3].
What to do about insulation problems
If you notice drafts, cold walls or heat loss, report this in writing to your landlord immediately. State what the problem is, when it started and add photos.[1]
- Report the problem in writing within 14 days and give a reasonable repair deadline.
- Add photos and a short description as evidence.
- Keep copies of your communications and note dates.
- Contact independent advice points or the Rent Tribunal if there is no response.[2]
- Consider temporary measures like draft excluders, but consult your landlord if in doubt.
Always keep photos and dates as evidence.
Repairs and small maintenance
Who pays depends on the cause and the scale. Major improvements such as upgrading insulation are usually an investment by the landlord, while small repairs may sometimes be the tenant's responsibility.
- Check your tenancy agreement for maintenance clauses.
- Carry out safety repairs immediately and inform the landlord.
- Ask for written permission before doing larger works.
Respond within reasonable timeframes to protect your rights.
How-To
- Inspect windows and insulation and take clear photos.
- Report the problem in writing to the landlord and keep a copy.
- Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to repair.
- If the landlord does not repair, discuss carrying out the work or a temporary solution.
- As a last step you can file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or the district court.[2]
Frequently asked questions
- Does the landlord always pay for insulation?
- Not always; major investments are often the landlord's responsibility, but more specific rules are set out in Book 7 of the Civil Code. [1]
- Can I install draft excluders myself?
- Yes, small measures are usually allowed, but check your tenancy agreement and inform the landlord if in doubt.
- When should I involve the Rent Tribunal?
- If there is a dispute about service charges or disagreement about defects you can ask the Rent Tribunal to issue a ruling. [2]
