Who Pays for Energy Label and Rent in the Netherlands?
As a tenant in the Netherlands it can be unclear who pays for an energy label or for maintenance and small repairs. This article clearly explains which costs are typically borne by the landlord and which small repairs are usually the tenants responsibility. You will read what steps to take if a dispute arises, which evidence is useful and when to ask for help from the Rent Tribunal or other authorities. The explanation is practical and aimed at tenants without legal background, with references to official sources so you can quickly follow the correct procedure. At the end you will find a step-by-step plan and frequently asked questions.
Who pays what?
In the Netherlands the core principle is that the landlord is responsible for the structural condition and major maintenance works, while tenants usually pay for minor repairs and daily upkeep. The law refers to the Civil Code Book 7 and practice rules of the Rent Tribunal for specific obligations.[1]
Energy label when renting
The energy label often raises questions: who pays to have a label issued or to implement energy-saving measures? Usually the landlord must ensure the property meets minimum standards and that information about the energy label is available when advertising. Costs for improvements that make the dwelling more energy-efficient typically fall to the owner, unless otherwise agreed in writing.[1]
Maintenance and small repairs
Minor repairs such as replacing a bulb, unblocking a sink or fixing a lock are in many rental agreements assigned to the tenant. Larger repairs to pipes, roof or heating systems generally remain the responsibility of the landlord. Always check your rental agreement as terms may differ.
- Light maintenance and small repairs at home (e.g. bulbs, sockets).
- Costs for major improvements or structural repairs (e.g. roof, central heating) are usually the landlords responsibility.
- Evidence of defects: photos, correspondence and receipts are essential in a dispute.
What can you do if a dispute arises?
If your landlord does not respond to a repair request, follow these steps: take photos, send a written complaint and note deadlines. If the issue persists you can file a complaint or request with the Rent Tribunal, or ultimately involve the subdistrict court. The Rent Tribunal often handles disputes about rent, service charges and sometimes maintenance issues.[2]
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays the costs for an energy label?
- Usually the landlord; information about the energy label must be provided when advertising and costs for improvements are generally borne by the owner.[1]
- Which small repairs must I pay for as a tenant?
- Minor everyday repairs such as bulbs or small seals are often your responsibility, unless your rental agreement states otherwise.
- What do I do if the landlord does not repair?
- Document the defect, send a written notice of default and seek help from the Rent Tribunal or consider legal action via the subdistrict court.
Step-by-step plan
- Gather evidence (photos, receipts, documents): take photos and keep messages and receipts.
- Notify your landlord in writing within a reasonable timeframe and record the date.
- Submit a formal complaint or application to the Rent Tribunal (application via huurcommissie.nl) if consultations do not solve the issue.[2]
- Consider the subdistrict court as a last step when the Rent Tribunal does not provide a remedy or for other legal matters.
Help and Support / Resources
- Laws and legal texts (Civil Code Book 7)
- Rent Tribunal information and application
- National government: housing information and rights
