Renting an apartment in Netherlands

What to know before you rent

Typical rents

CBS reports an average rent increase of 4.4% in 2026 (including rent harmonisation) across regulated, mid-rent and liberalised homes; 4.3% in Amsterdam and 4.7% in Rotterdam. (source, 2026-09)

Deposits

For leases signed from 1 July 2023 a deposit may be at most two months' basic rent (three months for older leases); it must be refunded within 14 days of the lease ending, or 30 days if costs are deducted. (source, 2026)

Tenant rights

Under the Good Landlordship Act, landlords must follow national rules against intimidation, housing discrimination and excessive deposits; certain disputes can go to the Huurcommissie (rent tribunal). (source, 2026)

Short-term rental rules

• Amsterdam: Holiday rental in Amsterdam is limited to the host's main residence with a permit, registration number and notification of each stay; usually up to 30 nights a year, cut to 15 nights in eight designated neighbourhoods from 1 April 2026, and banned outright in some areas. (source, 2026-09)
• Rotterdam: Rotterdam only allows holiday rental of a home the host owns or mainly lives in, needs owner/VvE consent where applicable, bans it in housing-association homes and charges 6.5% tourist tax. (source, 2026)