What Does the Maintenance Obligation Entail?
In Zoetermeer, a landlord is legally obliged to maintain the rental property in good condition. This means that defects that reduce living comfort must be repaired. This obligation is laid down in Dutch law and applies to every landlord in the region.
Responsibilities of the Landlord
| Element | Examples | Repair Period |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Roof, foundation, walls | Depending on severity |
| Technical Installations | Heating, water pipes, electricity | Immediately in case of defects |
| Common Areas | Hallway, elevator, access | Regular inspection |
| Exterior | Windows, exterior painting | Every 5-7 years |
| Drainage and Sewerage | Main pipes, drain pipes | Quickly in case of problems |
What Falls Under Major Maintenance?
- Repair or replacement of the roof
- Maintenance of facades and pointing
- Replacement of the heating boiler
- Renovation of bathroom or kitchen due to wear
- Periodic maintenance of elevators
- Replacement of window frames
Response Times for Defects
Types of Defects
- Immediate Emergency (A): Within 24 hours (e.g. gas leak, heating failure in cold months)
- Urgent (B): Within 7 days (e.g. water leakage, defective access door)
- Standard (C): Within 6 weeks (e.g. mould growth, poorly functioning windows)
What if the Landlord Does Not Respond?
If your landlord in Zoetermeer does not act on defects, follow these steps:
- Send an official letter with a deadline for repair
- File a complaint with the Rent Tribunal
- Consider a request for rent reduction
- Approach the court for a legal sanction
- Carry out repairs yourself and claim the costs, provided properly documented
Can I carry out repairs myself and recover the costs?
Yes, provided you have first notified the landlord in writing and allowed a reasonable response time. Ensure you keep all invoices.
Who is responsible for damage caused by an aged roof?
The landlord bears the costs, as this falls under major maintenance. Damage to personal belongings can also be claimed from the landlord.
What is the maximum duration for a repair?
This varies per situation. In serious cases, the landlord must take immediate action, while minor defects must be remedied within a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting in Zoetermeer
What are my rights as a tenant in Zoetermeer?
As a tenant, you are entitled to a safe, well-maintained home, protection against unjustified rent increases and the option to take action if the property is uninhabitable.
Can my landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?
No, rent increases are subject to statutory rules. The landlord must inform you in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the permitted limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be kept by the landlord in a separate account and repaid within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How do I terminate my rental agreement in Zoetermeer?
You can terminate the rental agreement in accordance with the notice period in your contract, usually in writing and observing the notice period.
What to do if my home has defects?
Write to the landlord with a request for repair. If there is no response within a reasonable time, you can have repairs carried out yourself and offset the costs against the rent.
Contact and Assistance in Zoetermeer
For legal questions about rental matters, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. For disputes, you fall under the District Court of The Hague (district).