What Does Subletting Mean?
Subletting means that as a tenant, you rent out your home or part of it to a third party. This is in most cases not permitted without written approval from the landlord. Subletting without permission can lead to serious consequences such as eviction.
Types of Subletting
| Type | Description | Permission Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Complete subletting | Renting out the entire home to another | Always |
| Room rental | Renting out a room in your home | Always |
| Lodger rental | Renting out a room while you yourself live in the home | Often yes |
| Holiday rental/Airbnb | Short-term rental to tourists | Always (usually not permitted) |
When is Subletting Permitted?
Subletting may be permitted under the following conditions:
- Written permission from the landlord
- A specific clause in the tenancy agreement
- Certain statutory exceptions (see further)
Statutory Exceptions in Zoetermeer
Lodger rental
If you yourself continue to live in the home, you may in some cases rent out a room without permission, provided this is not explicitly prohibited in your tenancy agreement.
Risks of Illegal Subletting
- Termination of tenancy agreement: You lose your right to the home
- Forced departure: You must leave the home
- Repayment of profits: Return earned income from subletting
- Fines: Possible in some cities such as Zoetermeer
- Fraud registration: Entry in a register for housing fraud
Airbnb and Short-Term Rental in Zoetermeer
For rental via platforms such as Airbnb, additional rules apply:
- Approval from the landlord is mandatory
- Registration with the municipality of Zoetermeer is required
- Limitation on the number of rental days per year
- Payment of tourist tax
- Often not permitted for social housing
Can my partner move in with me without permission?
Yes, this is not considered subletting. A life partner may live with you without the landlord's permission.
May I rent out my home during a temporary stay abroad?
No, this is only possible with written permission from the landlord. Without permission, this is considered illegal subletting.
What risks does a subtenant face?
A subtenant has no legal rights against the landlord and must leave as soon as the head tenant's tenancy agreement ends. Recovery of paid rent from the landlord is not possible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting in Zoetermeer
What are my rights as a tenant in Zoetermeer?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe home, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and the ability to demand maintenance if the home is not habitable.
Can my landlord just increase the rent?
No, rent increases are subject to strict rules. The landlord must inform you in writing at least two months in advance and may not increase the rent above the statutory limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The landlord must keep the deposit in an account and must repay it within 30 days after termination of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Zoetermeer?
You can terminate your tenancy by observing the notice period in your contract. This usually needs to be done in writing.
What if my home has defects?
Ask the landlord in writing to carry out repairs. If this does not happen within a reasonable period, you may have repairs done yourself and offset the costs against the rent.