Who is responsible in case of damages to the property?

Although there is always a grey area, the Dutch law is pretty clear on which costs are for the account of tenant and which are for landlord. The legislator has recorded this in what is called the ‘besluit kleine herstellingen’. The rule of thumb is that major maintenance are for the costs of landlord and the smaller maintenance jobs are for tenant.

It’s important to mention that a tenant is also financially responsible when they have caused the damages to the property. In this case, it doesn’t matter whether it’s listed under major maintenance or small maintenance jobs.

More from our blog:

02 October, 2025

Temporary letting through the Vacancy Act: how to avoid vacancy and high costs

Jack always loved living in his ‘tiny house’. But when he fell back in love with his childhood-sweetheart after 40 years, it turned out that she ...
Read more
11 September, 2025

Temporary living arrangements in divorce situations: how short-term rental offers a solution

John has been a real estate investor for years and, just like many others,  focussed on starter properties, rental properties and transforming ...
Read more