Free checklist · Before you sign
Check these before you sign a rental contract
Most problems are easier to avoid than to fix. Go through this list before you sign or pay anything.
- 01
Is the rent legal?
Homes with up to 186 points have a legal maximum rent for contracts from 1 July 2024, and rooms always have one. Check the points before you sign: after signing, you only have 6 months to get money back.
Free rent check - 02
Is the deposit at most 2 months of base rent?
For contracts from 1 July 2023 the deposit may be at most two months of base rent (kale huur). The landlord must repay it within 14 days after you move out, or 30 days if costs are deducted.
Deposit rules and letter - 03
Is a temporary contract allowed?
Since 1 July 2024 temporary contracts are only allowed for certain groups, such as students. Otherwise you should get a contract for an indefinite period.
Temporary contracts explained - 04
Is the agent charging you a fee?
An agent who works for the landlord may not charge you as well, whatever the fee is called (agency fee, contract costs, administration costs).
Agency fees explained - 05
Are base rent and service costs listed separately?
Ask for the base rent and a breakdown of the service costs. With one all-in price you cannot check either.
Service costs check - 06
What is the energy label?
The energy label adds or removes points, so it changes the maximum rent. Look it up at ep-online.nl with the address.
- 07
Can you register at the address?
You must register at your address with the municipality. A landlord who says you cannot is a warning sign.
- 08
Did you get written information from the landlord?
Since 1 July 2023 landlords must give tenants written information, for example about the deposit, service costs and where to report problems in your municipality.
Signs of a rental scam
- You are asked to pay a deposit or first rent before you have seen the home or signed a contract.
- The landlord is “abroad” and will send the keys after you pay.
- The rent is far below other homes in the same area.
- You are pushed to decide today, or asked to pay in cash or through a money transfer service.
- You cannot verify who owns the home. The Kadaster (land registry) can tell you for a small fee.