Who Pays for Disputed Service Charges in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, receiving an incorrect service charge statement can be confusing and stressful. In this article we explain step by step what rights you have, which evidence is useful and how to formally object to an incorrect settlement. We cover when you can involve the Rent Tribunal, which documents you should collect and which deadlines matter. We also discuss possible outcomes, who may bear costs and when a subdistrict court judge may be needed. The aim is to give you practical, understandable tools so you can make informed decisions and contact the right authorities for support.

What to do with an incorrect statement

First check the statement carefully: are all items listed clearly and do the amounts match earlier statements? Note discrepancies and make copies of the settlement and your payment proofs. Inform the landlord in writing and request an explanation or correction; always keep a copy of that communication.

Important documents

• The tenancy agreement and any additional agreements about service charges.
• The specification of the service charges or final settlement.
• Payment proofs such as bank statements or receipts.
• Photos or reports of defects related to costs (for example repairs).

Deadlines and objections

Respond quickly: there may be deadlines to file an objection or complaint. First report the problem in writing to the landlord and request a corrected statement. If you cannot reach an agreement with the landlord, you may be able to involve the Rent Tribunal for assessment of service charges and the reasonableness of costs.^[1]

When to involve the Rent Tribunal or court

The Rent Tribunal often handles disputes about service charges and may rule on the admissibility and amount of items. For complex contractual or termination disputes, the subdistrict court may have jurisdiction. Consult the rules in Book 7 of the Civil Code for your options.^[2]

Possible outcomes

• Correction of the statement and refund of overpaid amounts.
• A ruling that certain costs are not attributable to the tenant.
• In some cases an obligation for one party to pay legal costs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I object to an incorrect statement?

Yes. Gather evidence and first submit a written objection to the landlord. If you cannot reach agreement, you can consider filing a case with the Rent Tribunal.

How long do I have to object?

There are no fixed general deadlines for all situations, but specific procedures and requests often have deadlines. Respond as soon as possible and consult the relevant rules or an advisor.

Do I always have to go to the Rent Tribunal?

Not always. The Rent Tribunal is suitable for many service charge issues, but for contractual disputes or termination it may be better to go to the subdistrict court.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents: tenancy agreement, statements and payment proofs.
2. Contact the landlord and ask for an explanation or correction of the statement.
3. Submit a written objection with a clear explanation and attach copies of evidence.
4. Consider applying to the Rent Tribunal if the landlord does not offer a suitable solution; follow the application procedure on the Rent Tribunal website.^[3]
5. Prepare for a hearing: organize your documents and note important dates and questions.
6. If the dispute cannot be resolved via the Rent Tribunal, consider legal action in the subdistrict court.

Key takeaways

• Keep all documents and communication regarding service charges.
• Start with written contact with the landlord before taking external steps.
• Consider the Rent Tribunal for an independent review of service charges.

Help and Support

• Rent Tribunal - independent dispute resolver for tenancy matters
• Wetten.nl - Civil Code Book 7 (tenancy law)
• Government.nl - information on renting and tenant rights

1. [1] Rent Tribunal
2. [2] Wetten.nl (Civil Code Book 7)
3. [3] Government.nl - renting and tenant rights