Landlord rights & duties

You can ask for the last three payslips or an equivalent (self-employed accounts, student proof + parental guarantee). You cannot ask for medical records, ethnic origin, or a copy of the eID.

Refusing a candidate based on origin, religion, family status, sexual orientation or disability is illegal. Base your decision on documented financial capacity and references only.

The lease must be in writing and include a description of the property, rent, charges and duration. Verbal-only leases are void of most legal protections.

You must register the lease and the entry-inventory ('plaatsbeschrijving') with the tax office within two months. Registration is free.

Even as owner, you may not access the property without an appointment. Reasonable notice (48 h+) is required.

You are responsible for the roof, structure, heating system, plumbing and any hidden defects that make the property unfit for use.

You can end a 9-year lease with 6 months' notice for personal occupation (yourself or close family), at any time.

For substantial renovations, you can end the lease at the end of the 3rd or 6th year with 6 months' notice, provided the works exceed defined thresholds.