Tenant Notice to End Lease in Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, ending your tenancy can feel confusing. This guide explains in clear language which steps you must take to correctly give notice, which notice periods and formalities apply, and which responsibilities remain for maintenance and small repairs. You will read when to give written notice, which pieces of evidence are useful and what to do if the landlord makes unreasonable demands. We also describe when you can ask the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) for help or go to court, and provide practical tips to avoid problems. You will also get advice on handling the deposit, the final inspection, and documenting the condition of the property with photos. If disagreements arise about repairs or overdue maintenance, we explain how to file complaints and which evidence matters for any procedure.

Steps and preparation

Before you give notice: check your tenancy agreement for specific rules about notice and notice periods; these may differ from the statutory rules in Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code^[1]. Note important dates and prepare evidence such as receipts, photos of the property condition and correspondence with the landlord.

• Check the notice period and the date the notice takes effect.
• Submit a written notice with name, address, date and signature.
• Keep copies of the notice and proof of sending or receipt.
• Schedule the final inspection and agree on a suitable date for handing over keys.
• Arrange the handling of the deposit and check which costs are reasonable for minor repairs.

If you are unsure about how maintenance is shared, you can consult our information on maintenance and small repairs for practical examples: Maintenance and small repairs (who pays what).

What to do if there is a dispute about maintenance

If the landlord demands extensive repairs or there are unpaid maintenance issues, document defects with clear photos and dates. First send a polite written repair request and give a reasonable deadline for repair. If no solution follows, you can file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or go to the subdistrict court depending on the dispute^[2].

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the notice period for tenants?

The standard tenant notice period is usually one month unless the contract states otherwise; always check your tenancy agreement and the statutory rules in Book 7 of the Civil Code.^[1]

Do I have to pay for small repairs at the end of the tenancy?

Small repairs may be the tenant's responsibility if stated in the tenancy agreement or if it concerns normal maintenance; you may dispute unreasonable repair demands and documentation helps.

When should I contact the Rent Tribunal?

The Rent Tribunal often handles rent and service charge issues; you can also consult the Tribunal for advice and procedures on maintenance disputes.^[2]

How-To

1. Read your tenancy agreement and note notice periods and special conditions.
2. Decide the date the notice will take effect and allow for statutory periods.
3. Write a clear written notice including address, contract details and signature.
4. Send the notice by registered post or obtain a receipt and keep proof.
5. Arrange the final inspection with the landlord and document the property condition with photos.
6. Settle the deposit and discuss reasonable deductions for damage or missing repairs.

Help and Support / Resources

• Burgerlijk Wetboek Boek 7 — wetten.overheid.nl
• Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) — information and forms
• Government.nl — housing and tenant rights

1. [1] wetten.overheid.nl
2. [2] huurcommissie.nl
3. [3] government.nl