Renting out your home: the main rules at a glance
Renting out can be an interesting way to make use of your home, for example if you're temporarily living abroad or have a second home. Yet there's more to it than finding a tenant. The rules for letting have been tightened significantly in recent years. In this article we outline the main points.
Permission from your lender
Do you have a mortgage on the home? Then you generally need permission from your lender to rent it out. An ordinary mortgage is intended for owner-occupation. If you let without permission, you can run into trouble. Always discuss this first with your bank or via mortgage advice.
The rent
In the Netherlands rules apply for the maximum rent. It's determined using a points system, in which the surface area, the energy label and the amenities count, among other things. Depending on the number of points, the home falls into a particular rental segment. Have the rent calculated properly to avoid disputes with the tenant.
The tenancy agreement
A good tenancy agreement records all the agreements: the rent, the term, the deposit, the service charges and the maintenance obligations. The rules for fixed-term and open-ended tenancy agreements have changed in recent years. Have the contract drawn up by a professional, so that it complies with current law.
Permits and municipal rules
Many municipalities have their own rules, such as a letting permit or buy-to-let restrictions in certain neighbourhoods. That applies, among other places, in parts of Amsterdam, Utrecht and Rotterdam. Check in advance what applies in your municipality.
The energy label
A valid energy label is also mandatory when letting. The label also plays a part in calculating the maximum rent. More explanation can be found on our page about the energy label and in energy label when selling.
A reliable tenant
Finding the right tenant is perhaps the most important part. Check income, employer and previous rental history. In our article screening a tenant you'll read how to do this carefully and fairly, within the rules for equal treatment.
Maintenance and obligations
As a landlord you're responsible for major maintenance and fixing defects. The tenant takes care of small day-to-day maintenance. Record this clearly in the contract and in a handover report with photos.
Tax consequences
If you rent out a home that isn't your main residence, it usually falls under box 3. That has consequences for your tax return. Get advice on this from a tax specialist.
Worry-free letting
Want to let without having to arrange everything yourself? Our rental agents help with the rent, the contract, tenant selection and the handover. Get in touch for more information.
Frequently asked: can I rent out a room?
Renting out a room in your own home, while you keep living there yourself, falls under different rules than renting out an entire home. Here too, agreements on the rent apply and the tenant has certain rights. Also check whether your mortgage lender and your municipality give permission, and whether there are any consequences for your tax return. A rental agent knows which rules apply in your situation.
Temporary letting during a sale
Is your home for sale and do you want to let it temporarily? That's possible in some cases with a special permit for temporary letting. That way you avoid the home standing empty. Rules do apply, for example on the duration and the type of tenancy agreement. Always ask your municipality about the current options.
The deposit
It's common to ask for a deposit. It serves as security for any damage or rent arrears. There are rules on the maximum amount of the deposit and the period within which you must repay it after the tenancy ends. Record this clearly in the tenancy agreement.