Renting a house in the Netherlands
For assignments of less than three years, in the current market, it is usually better to rent. Rental costs are fixed, contracts can be ended if you need to go back home, and the headaches of repairs and maintenance are the property owner's responsibility.
We explore in this section
Is it better to rent or buy in the Netherlands?
For assignments of less than three years, in the current market, it is usually better to rent. Rental costs are fixed, contracts can be ended if you need to go back home, and the headaches of repairs and maintenance are the property owner's responsibility. Also, there is no loss through having to resell before your costs can be covered, nor the hassle of waiting for the property to sell should the market be slow again.
How much is house rent in Netherlands?
To rent a 1-bedroom apartment in the center of a Dutch city costs around 1100 euro per month. Outside the center this will cost around 850 euro per month. In a city like Amsterdam these prices are considerable higher. 1-bedroom apartment in the center of Amsterdam costs around 1550 euro per month. These prices are for apartments that are not rent controlled.
Dutch Rental websites
To find a rental property in the Netherlands and you don’t want to use a Rental Agency you can visit these Dutch rental websites.
Rental Agencies in the Netherlands
The housing market in the Netherlands has been exploding the last years. Cities like Amsterdam and the Hague has seen an increase in selling price and rental prices. A Rental Agency can help you look for an apartment for a reasonable price and can advise you which neighbourhood could be better for your budget to life in.
Social housing and the free sector
The difference between social housing and free market rentals is that social housing is rent controlled. The rent are not allowed to be higher than a certain amount. This is called maximale huurgrens. Social housing in the Netherlands is mostly meant for people with lower incomes. Read more in the page Social housing and the free sector.
Do i need home insurance?
Home insurance is not legally required in the Netherlands, but it is highly recommended for homeowners and renters alike. There are two main types of home insurance to consider:
Homeowners insurance (Opstalverzekering)
This insurance covers damage to the structure of your home. If you have a mortgage, your lender will usually require you to have this type of insurance. It covers events like fire, storms, and vandalism.
Contents insurance (Inboedelverzekering)
This insurance covers your personal belongings within your home. It protects against theft, fire, water damage, and other risks. While not mandatory, it is advisable to protect your possessions.
Read more in our Home insurance section.
