Who Pays Gas, Water & Electricity? Tenants Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands you can face surprises when gas, water or electricity need repair or when there is disagreement about who bears the cost. This article explains in plain language which maintenance and repair obligations typically lie with the landlord and which tasks usually fall to the tenant, common mistakes that occur, and practical steps you can take to resolve a dispute. There is attention to when you can involve the Rent Tribunal or the subdistrict court and which rules in the Civil Code Book 7 are relevant for utilities and small repairs.[1]
Who is responsible for which costs?
In general in the Netherlands, the landlord provides the basic installations and the condition of the rented property. The exact division depends on what is stated in the rental agreement and on the nature of the repair. Small repair works due to normal wear may fall to the tenant, but structural problems or defects in installations usually remain the landlord's responsibility.[1]
Common mistakes by tenants and landlords
Below is an overview of mistakes that often lead to ambiguity or disputes.
- Assuming small repairs must always be paid by the tenant without checking the tenancy agreement.
- Failing to report leaks or malfunctions so that damage later becomes larger than necessary.
- Paying costs immediately without clear agreement on responsibility, causing disputes with the landlord.
- Not keeping written requests or records of notifications and agreements.
What to do in case of disagreement
If you cannot reach agreement with the landlord, first give a written reasonable period for repair and payment. If that does not help, the Rent Tribunal is sometimes an appropriate step for disputes about service charges and rent-related matters, while the subdistrict court handles other tenancy disputes.[2]
Practical examples
Examples often help determine who pays:
- A broken central heating boiler due to aging: usually the landlord's responsibility.
- A clogged drain caused by improper use by the tenant: often the tenant's responsibility.
- Extra meters or separate connections requested by the tenant: costs may be borne by the tenant if agreed in advance.
Steps when requesting repair or reimbursement
- First review your tenancy agreement and determine whether the obligation is explicitly recorded.
- Report the problem in writing, with a clear description and date; keep a copy.
- Set a reasonable period for repair and state what steps you will take if there is no response.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal or legal advice if the dispute cannot be resolved.[2]
Key points
- Documentation is often decisive in a dispute.
- Respond to deadlines and official letters to avoid losing rights.
