Key Steps in Renting in the Netherlands
- Determine if it’s Social Housing or Private RentalSocial housing has regulated rent ceilings based on a points system, while private rentals are more market-driven. If the base rent of a place is below a certain threshold (e.g. ~ €879.66 in 2024), it may qualify as social housing.
- Budget & Check Costs up frontBefore applying, check not only the rent, but also the deposit (usually 1-2 months’ rent), service or communal costs (shared spaces, cleaning, lighting), utility costs (electricity, water, gas, internet). Also find out if agency fees apply.
- Find Listings & View PropertiesUse trusted portals like Pararius, Funda, or platforms for expats/student housing. If possible, view in person to inspect condition, check what’s included (furnished / unfurnished, appliances, flooring, heating). Prepare necessary paperwork: ID/passport, proof of income or employment, residence permit or BSN (Citizen Service Number).
- Contract & Tenant EvaluationLandlord or agency will evaluate tenants via documentation: income/earnings, employment contract or bank statements, possibly credit check. Once accepted, a written tenancy agreement is signed. Since 1 July 2023, there are stricter requirements: deposit caps, written contracts, landlord must provide certain information in writing.
- Pay Deposit, First Month’s Rent & Key HandoverAfter the contract is signed, you usually pay the deposit + first month’s rent before you move in or before receiving keys. When moving in, do a walk-through (inspect condition, take photos), record meter readings—this helps protect your deposit.
- Ongoing Obligations & RightsYou pay rent monthly; service costs may be separate; utility bills also usually separate. Your landlord should provide annual overview of service charges. Contracts often have rules about access for maintenance. If disputes (rent increase, deposit, repairs, etc.), there are bodies like the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) or municipality offices.
How Dogpay Helps in the Renting / Payment Journey
- Transparent Deposits & Upfront RepairsSince deposit + first rent are big initial expenses, especially if you’re funding from abroad, Dogpay helps with multi-currency transfers, clear fees & exchange rates, and ensures money arrives to landlord/agency properly. Also helps you keep records/photos tied to payments.
- Managing Recurring Payments & Utility BillsUtilities and service costs often separate and recurring. Dogpay can help schedule or remind for those payments, especially if you have foreign income or accounts. Reduces risk of late fees or bank charges due to foreign transfers.
- Paying Agencies / Admin FeesIf using an agent or intermediary (makelaar/verhuurbureau), there may be agency or administrative fees. Dogpay helps you pay these cleanly, showing exactly how much you’re paying, avoiding hidden bank fees or bad exchange rates.
- Document / Contract PaymentsSome landlords require certified translations / documentation / international verification. These may need payments abroad. Dogpay helps make these kinds of payments more manageable, with record history useful for contract disputes or proof.
- Handling Rental Disputes & Proof of PaymentsIf issues arise (deposit refund, damage, rent over-charges), having organized payment records, invoices, receipts is very helpful. Dogpay provides transparent transaction history that supports your claims.
Quick Tips & Reminders
- Always ask if the property is social housing or private; rules differ.
- Read contract carefully. Check what “service costs” include; what’s furnished; what’s responsibility of tenant vs landlord.
- Take photos at move-in; record meter readings.
- Check your rights under recent laws (Good Landlordship Act, deposit caps etc.).
- If you’re funding from abroad—or part of your income is foreign banking—using a service like Dogpay early can save you fees and help ensure smooth payment flows.
