Tenant Rights in the Netherlands: What to Do
As a tenant in the Netherlands it is important to know your basic rights regarding maintenance and small repairs. This guide explains in plain language what you can expect from the landlord, which small repairs are often the tenant's responsibility and what steps you can take when repairs are not carried out. We describe how to report problems, which deadlines matter and when to collect evidence to support your case. The information is intended for tenants who want to quickly know what they can do to restore their living comfort and protect their legal position.
Rights for maintenance and small repairs
In many cases the landlord is obliged to keep the rented property in good condition and to repair major defects such as heating, water or leaks. For the legal rules see the Civil Code Book 7.[1] Small everyday repairs can sometimes be assigned to the tenant in the rental agreement; therefore always check your contract.
What to do immediately for a defect
- Report the problem in writing and keep a copy of your message.
- Give a reasonable deadline for repair and note the date of reporting.
- Take photos or videos as evidence and note the impact on your living conditions.
- Stay in contact and ask for confirmation of receipt and scheduled work.
If the landlord does not respond or does not adequately repair, you can consult the Rent Tribunal or other bodies for advice on next steps.[2]
If the landlord does not act adequately
When the landlord refuses or fails to repair, there are several options: remind and urge, request an independent party to inspect, or start a formal procedure at the Rent Tribunal or the subdistrict court depending on the issue.
- Send a registered letter or email as a reminder with photo evidence.
- Ask for an inspection report or have a professional provide a written estimate.
- File a request with the Rent Tribunal for serious or unresolved problems or consider legal action.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I do if the landlord does not repair?
- Report the defect in writing, gather evidence and request repair within a reasonable time; if unresolved you can approach the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice.[2]
- Do I always have to pay for small repairs myself?
- Sometimes the rental agreement states that small repairs are the tenant's responsibility; this must be clear in the contract and must not conflict with the law.[1]
- When do I involve official bodies?
- Involve the Rent Tribunal for disputes about service charges or disagreements about repair costs; for complex legal issues the subdistrict court may be an option.[2]
How-To
- Report the defect immediately in writing to the landlord and note date and time.
- Gather evidence: photos, videos, estimates and communications.
- File a complaint with the Rent Tribunal if the dispute concerns service charges or repair costs.[2]
- Consider legal action through the subdistrict court if informal solutions do not work.
Key Takeaways
- Read and keep your rental agreement to avoid misunderstandings.
- Respond on time to official messages to preserve your rights.
Help and Support
- Wetten.overheid.nl - Civil Code Book 7
- Huurcommissie.nl - Rent Tribunal
- Government.nl - Information for tenants
