Viewing a home in the Netherlands

Confirm the viewing time and address, and research the neighbourhood: transport, shops, schools and noise.

• Prepare your digital file and bring paper copies of your passport, payslips and employment contract.
• Write your list of questions in advance.
• It helps to know the prices of similar flats so you can assess whether the price is fair.
• Try to arrive a few minutes early and do not be late, since the landlord judges your first impression.
• If you cannot attend, tell them beforehand and suggest an alternative.
• Avoid bringing many people with you, and a friend who knows Dutch can accompany you if your language is limited.

Inspect damp and mould in the ceiling, walls and corners, the condition of windows, ventilation and heating, water pressure, taps and toilets, electricity and sockets, and the kitchen and appliances if any.

• Ask about the energy label (energielabel), since it determines your bill, and homes with a low label are more expensive to heat.
• Check sound insulation and the neighbours.
• Photograph every defect you see and record it in writing, and tell the landlord before signing so that he repairs it or lowers the price.
• Check for a cellar or storage and a bicycle place, since the bicycle is important in the Netherlands and space may be limited.
• And notice the building's appearance and entrance.

Ask about the length of the contract and the start date, and whether it is permanent or for a fixed period, about the base rent and the service costs (servicekosten) and what they include and whether they are paid in advance, about the deposit and when it is returned, about the annual increase conditions, about the heating system and its meters, about whether you can register at the address, whether the flat is furnished or not, and about rules on pets, smoking and subletting.

• Also ask why the previous tenant is leaving.
• If the landlord refuses to answer basic questions this is a warning sign.
• Note the answers and confirm them in writing in the contract.

The landlord or agent may ask for a quick decision or say others are waiting, which is a familiar pressure technique.

• You have the right to ask for a short time to think but be ready that the flat may go to someone else.
• After the viewing send a short thank-you message expressing your interest and stating your qualities as a tenant: stable income, no pets, non-smoker.
• Never agree to pay any amount in cash or by transfer before signing the contract.
• If you see warning signs such as a vague contract or a large amount requested, go elsewhere.
• And compare several offers if possible.

When you receive the keys a handover report (opleveringsrapport) is drawn up describing the condition of each room, existing defects and the meters.

• Read it carefully and sign only if it is correct and add any defect not mentioned, and photograph everything with a date.
• This report protects you when leaving so that your deposit is not deducted for damage that already existed.
• Record the readings of the gas, electricity and water meters and send them to the utility companies.
• Ask for a copy of the building rules and a contact number for faults.
• And report faults in writing and keep the correspondence.

What is the purpose of the handover report?