Tenants’ rights in the Netherlands
There are many rules and regulations protecting tenants’ rights in the Netherlands. Many tenants, especially expats, aren’t sufficiently aware of this. We would like to help you, free of charge, with all your questions regarding renting and living in Amsterdam.
Did you know that …
- As a tenant you have rights: the law always has the final say, regardless of what’s in your lease.
- There are rules regarding rent control, furnishing and service charges.
- Housing agencies in Amsterdam have to abide by the rules and can be held accountable if you are being charged too much rent.
- So-called temporary leases often in fact aren’t actually temporary. You might not have to leave when your lease ends.
- You can make the landlord do the necessary maintenance.
- You cannot be evicted from your home for starting legal procedures.
- More and more landlords try to overcharge unsuspecting expats.
The Wijksteunpunten Wonen:
- Will give you free information, advice and support regarding renting and housing.
- Form an independent and professional organisation.
- Are in every part of the city. There is always a Wijksteunpunt Wonen in your neighborhood.
Which questions might the Wijksteunpunt Wonen be able to answer?
- Are my rent or my service charges too high?
- How can I get the landlord to do the necessary repairs?
- What can I do if the landlord ends my lease?
- What are my rights when my house is getting renovated?
- How do I find housing?
- And many other questions regarding renting accommodation.
Who does the Wijksteunpunt Wonen work for?
The Wijksteunpunt Wonen helps tenants, resident groups and people looking for housing in Amsterdam. Some Wijksteunpunten also help owner-occupants.
What does it cost?
The Wijksteunpunt Wonen’s services are free of charge.
How to contact the Wijksteunpunten Wonen
The Wijksteunpunt Wonen contact information is available on the contact page. You can call and make an appointment or visit during their walk-in times, please bring your lease. You can also ask questions via this website.
English publications and more information
- Our brochure “Tenants rights in the Netherlands“.
There are many rules and regulations protecting tenants’ rights in the Netherlands, but many tenants aren’t sufficiently aware of this. We would like to help you, free of charge, with all your questions regarding renting and living in Amsterdam. Most people who work at a wijksteunpunt wonen can give you advice in English. - Our brochure “Additional Rental Costs“.
Many additional housing costs are not covered by the basic rent. These costs are, however, strictly regulated in the Netherlands. Many tenants (especially expats) are not sufficiently aware of the laws. Read more to learn about your rights with regards to these costs and what to do if you are being overcharged. - Article “Are housing agencies allowed to demand a fee from the tenant?“ in the Expat magazine “The Sentinel”
- Article “Fair Rent for All” in the Expat magazine “The Sentinel”
- More information is available on this Dutch-language website www.huurders.info.