Who pays for rent with utilities in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, it can be confusing who pays the costs when the rent is listed as "inclusive" of gas, water, electricity and internet. Often the contract states whether the landlord arranges these services, but uncertainties may remain about maintenance, repairs or overuse. This article explains step by step which rules apply under tenancy law, which costs are normally the landlord's responsibility and which may be charged to the tenant. You will receive practical advice on keeping evidence, communicating with the landlord and involving bodies such as the Rent Tribunal. This helps you better understand your rights and obligations and the steps you can take in a dispute.

Who pays what?

The allocation of costs usually depends on the rental agreement and the nature of the service. Legal rules on rent and service charges are in the Civil Code; in case of doubt the contract text and tenancy law apply ^[1].

• Fixed subscription costs for collective supplies are often paid by the landlord and settled via service charges.
• If the rental agreement explicitly states that rent includes certain services, that arrangement often falls under the rent price.
• Major maintenance and repairs (such as central heating or pipes) are usually the landlord's responsibility.
• Minor repairs or damage caused by misuse may be charged to the tenant; check your rental agreement.

If you disagree about the settlement of service charges or who should pay, you can request information and assessment from the Rent Tribunal ^[2]. Documentation such as meter readings, invoices and photos helps in a procedure.

What steps to take in a dispute?

Start by checking your rental agreement and gathering evidence. First contact your landlord and try to resolve the issue in writing. If that fails, formal routes include filing a request with the Rent Tribunal or going to the cantonal court.

Practical tips

• Take photos of defects and note dates of reports and responses.
• Send notifications by e-mail and keep delivery receipts or screenshots.
• If necessary, request an itemization of service charges from your landlord.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays gas, water, electricity and internet if the rent is "inclusive"?

If the rental agreement states that the rent is "inclusive" of certain services, the landlord usually pays the subscriptions or bears the ultimate responsibility; check the contract for details.

Can the landlord demand extra costs afterwards for consumption?

The landlord can only demand extra costs if this is contractually agreed or if there is demonstrably extra consumption by the tenant; if unclear, you can consult the Rent Tribunal ^[2].

What do I do if the landlord does not repair?

Remind the landlord in writing of the obligation to maintain; if that does not work, you can take steps toward the Rent Tribunal or the cantonal court.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: photos, invoices, meter readings and written reports.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and allow a reasonable period for repair.
3. If there is no solution, file a request with the Rent Tribunal including your dossier.
4. Follow the procedure and attend any hearing; use your documentation as evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Read your rental agreement carefully to know which services are included.
• Major maintenance is usually the landlord's responsibility.
• Always keep evidence of reports, invoices and agreements.

Help and Support / Resources

• Wetten.overheid.nl — Civil Code (tenancy law)
• Huurcommissie.nl — information and applications
• Government.nl — guidance for residents

1. [1] Wetten.overheid.nl — Civil Code Book 7
2. [2] Huurcommissie.nl — Rent Tribunal and service charges
3. [3] Government.nl — information for tenants