Legal aspects

Getting into the legal aspects of renting accommodation is not likely to be anyone’s favourite pastime. We do, however, recommend you acquaint yourself with this topic beforehand. That way, you will know what to expect and will be able to avoid unnecessary bills or disagreements when you leave.

Tenancy agreements are normally in Dutch. Be sure to have someone check the contract before you sign it!

 Some important issues you need to look out for in the contract:

• Can you use the address of the accommodation rented and the rental agreement to register at the municipality of Rotterdam? In case of a subtenancy (whether it concerns an apartment, room or house) you will only be able to register on that address at the municipality under certain conditions. This is why we would in general advice against subtenancy.
• Does the property come furnished or not?
• Are utilities and services included in the rent? If not, find out what they will come to on a monthly basis.
• Please bear in mind that if gas, heating and water are included in the rent, this means you will be paying an advance. If you then take long showers or heat your room day and night even in summer, it will very likely exceed the advance and lead to an unpleasant bill upon departure. You might like to put on an extra sweater instead of turning up the heat and pay extra!
• Are there any extra fees, such as commission or a reservation fee?
• How much is the deposit and what are the deposit return conditions?
• What is the duration of the tenancy agreement? Could you stay longer if you wished? Check the terms of notice, too.
• What are the rental requirements? (What documents do you need? This also refers to matters such as  passport copies, proof of enrollment at your university, a work contract and/or payslip).

If you have questions about one of the above mentioned points, don't hesitate to consult the Housing Hotline for advice.

Depending on your financial situation, you might qualify for housing benefit. Check this page for more information.

DepoClaim helps tenants with problems regarding the rental contract. It often occurs that landlords no longer reply to letters or call upon unclear reasons to withhold the deposit. DepoClaim represents and helps tenants who are experiencing problems with their landlord.

DepoClaim has thorough knowledge of Dutch rental law and represents you in your claim. This means that all frustrating legal steps are taken care of. DepoClaim works with the No Cure No Pay principle. As long as DepoClaim does not succeed in recovering your claim, you will not pay anything for the services of DepoClaim.

Have you rent accommodation in the Netherlands within the last five years and did you not receive your deposit back, or is your landlord unlawfully keeping other payments? DepoClaim eagerly wants to help you in reclaiming your deposit.

Contact DepoClaim via info@depoclaim.com or check the website for more information.

If you are looking for some in depth information about your rights as a tenant than check out the  tenants' rights manual for international students which is developed by the Dutch Student Union