Tenant rights for short stays in Netherlands
As a tenant renting a home for a short stay in the Netherlands, you want to know your rights when maintenance or a minor repair is needed. This article explains in plain language who is responsible for repairs, which costs landlords or tenants typically pay, and how to report an issue. We also cover steps to take if a dispute arises, when you can involve the Rent Tribunal or court, and which pieces of evidence are useful. The explanation is aimed at tenants without legal background; terms are clarified and practical actions described so you quickly know what you can do to resolve housing problems safely and effectively.
What counts as "minor repairs"?
Many tenancy agreements consider minor repairs to be simple fixes such as replacing a faucet washer, repairing an electrical socket, or small painting tasks that the tenant normally maintains. The exact boundary between minor and major repairs may be in your tenancy agreement and is also discussed in the Civil Code Book 7.[1]
Who pays for maintenance and minor repairs?
Generally the landlord is responsible for major maintenance and matters that keep the home habitable, and the tenant for small day-to-day repairs, unless otherwise agreed in the contract. Always check your tenancy agreement and make written arrangements.
- Landlord: larger maintenance work that keeps the property habitable.
- Tenant: minor repairs and cleaning as agreed in the contract.
- Check your tenancy agreement and report issues in writing.
Practical steps for repairs
Follow a step-by-step approach to get problems resolved quickly and properly. Document everything and know when to seek external help, such as the Rent Tribunal for rent and service charge matters.[2] For general guidance on tenancy and housing you can also consult official government information.[3]
- First contact the landlord or manager and provide a clear description of the problem.
- Take photos or videos as evidence of the defects.
- Set a reasonable repair deadline and record the date of the report.
- If the issue is serious or the landlord does not respond, consider approaching the Rent Tribunal or small claims court.
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays for a dripping tap during a short stay?
- Usually a dripping tap is a minor repair paid by the tenant, unless the tenancy agreement states otherwise or the leak indicates larger overdue maintenance by the landlord.
- Can the landlord enter my property unannounced for repairs?
- The landlord should request permission in advance or give reasonable notice, except in emergencies where immediate action is needed.
- What if the landlord does not respond to a repair request?
- Send a written reminder with evidence and a deadline; if there is still no resolution you can seek advice or file a request with the Rent Tribunal or go to the civil court.
- Can I hire a contractor myself and deduct costs from the rent?
- That is only possible if the tenancy agreement or the law allows it and you make clear prior arrangements; deducting costs without permission carries risks.
How-To
- Contact the landlord and describe the problem clearly and concisely.
- Take photos or videos as evidence of the defects.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repair and confirm this in writing.
- If there is no solution, request mediation or ask the Rent Tribunal for advice.
- Keep all correspondence and receipts in case you start a complaint or procedure.
Help and Support
- Read laws and regulations at wetten.overheid.nl
- See information and forms at huurcommissie.nl
- General government information about housing at government.nl
