New Service Charge Rules in the Netherlands from 2027: What Landlords Need to Know
In 2027 new rules regarding rental service costs will apply. Make sure to check them in advance to be preparedAre you renting out a room or property in the Netherlands? Besides the basic rent, tenants often pay additional service charges for things like utilities, furniture or cleaning shared spaces. From 1 January 2027, new regulations will change how landlords can charge these costs.
The Dutch Wet modernisering servicekosten (Service Charges Modernisation Act) aims to make service charges clearer, fairer and more transparent for both landlords and tenants.
What exactly is changing?
The biggest change is that landlords will only be allowed to charge service costs within eight legally defined categories for new rental contracts:
- Heating and cooling
- Electricity, gas and water
- Furniture and other movable items
- Minor repairs, including cleaning and garden maintenance
- Supervision, security and waste disposal
- Signal services, such as internet and television
- Insurance and reserve funds
- Administration costs
The new regulations also introduce clearer rules for calculating and dividing these costs. Landlords must base their charges on actual expenses and follow the applicable calculation rules. You can find more details on the official Dutch government website (in Dutch).
What does this mean for homestay and room rentals?
If you're renting out a room in your own home, you probably share facilities such as the kitchen, bathroom, heating and electricity with your tenant.
It's important to agree on which costs the tenant pays and how shared expenses are divided. These agreements should be clearly documented in the rental contract, with charges that can be properly justified.
Don't forget the annual settlement. Landlords must provide tenants with an overview of the previous year's actual service charges by 30 June each year. For more information, read our FAQ on how rent and additional costs are calculated.
Do the new rules apply to existing rental contracts?
The new list of permitted service charges and calculation rules applies to rental contracts signed on or after 1 January 2027.
Most existing contracts will continue under the previous rules, although some changes concerning disputes and service charge settlements will also apply to them. You can find further details on the Dutch Rent Tribunal's website.
Need help renting out your room?
At Hospi Housing, we help hosts and landlords rent out their rooms safely and in line with Dutch regulations. From setting a fair rental price and preparing contracts to finding suitable tenants and providing personal support throughout the rental period.
Want more information or personalised guidance? Register for free with Hospi Housing or contact our team. We're happy to help!