Before you sign: points to check in a Dutch rental agreement

For most people arriving in the Netherlands, a rental agreement is the first substantial contract they sign here. It sets out what you pay, what your landlord must provide and what you are responsible for, so it is worth reading carefully before you sign — ideally before you pay a deposit.

The agreement itself

Check whose names appear on the contract, the start date, whether the agreement is for a fixed period or indefinite, and what happens when that period ends. If the term is fixed, ask what would need to happen for it to continue.

Rent, service costs and deposit

Separate the basic rent from service costs (servicekosten) such as utilities, water, internet or cleaning of shared areas, and ask how those costs are settled each year. Ask how the deposit is held, what it may be used for, and when and how it is returned.

The condition of the property

Walk through the property with your landlord and record its condition: dated photographs, a written list of existing damage, and an inventory if furniture is included. Sign that list only when it reflects what you actually see. It is the record that protects your deposit when you move out.

Repairs and maintenance

Agree in writing which repairs are the landlord's responsibility and which are yours, and how you report something that needs fixing. Minor interior maintenance and major structural repairs are usually treated differently.

Rent and the quality of the property

If you think the rent is disproportionate to the size, condition and energy label of the property, a rent assessment can be requested from the Huurcommissie, the Dutch rent tribunal. Deadlines apply, so check early whether your situation qualifies.

Address registration

In the Netherlands you register your address with the municipality where you live (the BRP). Ask the landlord whether registration is possible at the property and what they need from you, because registration affects permits, health insurance and tax matters.

Ending the agreement

Look for the notice period, when notice may be given and how it must be given. Keep a copy of the signed agreement, the condition list and every message exchanged with the landlord.

Before you sign

If a clause is unclear, ask for it to be explained in writing. We review rental agreements for international tenants before they sign and explain which points are worth clarifying. See our services for individuals, or contact us.