KNM: Tenant Rights & Obligations
Dutch tenants have strong legal protections. Your landlord cannot evict you without a court order, and rent increases are regulated by law. In return, you...
Dutch tenants have strong legal protections. Your landlord cannot evict you without a court order, and rent increases are regulated by law. In return, you must pay rent on time, maintain the property, not cause nuisance, and follow house rules (huisregels).
| Your Right | Your Obligation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Protection against eviction | Pay rent on time | Usually by 1st of month |
| Maximum rent increases | Report maintenance issues | Put in writing |
| Privacy (landlord must give notice) | Not sublet without permission | Can be ground for eviction |
| Live peacefully | Not cause nuisance | Noise, illegal activities |
| Challenge unfair rent | Follow house rules | VvE rules for apartments |
| Get deposit back | Leave property in good condition | Normal wear is okay |
| Understand the rental contract | Sign only when you agree | Your signature means you accept the agreements in the contract |
Examples
- Mijn huisbaas wil de huur verhogen.
- My landlord wants to increase the rent.
- De huurverhoging is maximaal 5,5%.
- The rent increase is maximum 5.5%.
- Er is een probleem met de verwarming.
- There is a problem with the heating.
- Ik wil mijn borg terug.
- I want my deposit back.
- Ik zet mijn handtekening onder het huurcontract.
- I sign the rental contract.
- Met mijn handtekening ga ik akkoord met de afspraken.
- With my signature I agree to the arrangements.
Study note
Keep all communication with your landlord in writing (email is fine). Read a rental contract before you sign it, because your signature means you agree to the rent, deposit, rules, and notice period. If you have a dispute, the Huurcommissie (Rent Tribunal) can help for social housing. For private rental disputes, you may need a lawyer. The Juridisch Loket offers free legal advice.
Practice after reading
Train knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.