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Minor Repairs by the Tenant in Utrecht

Discover your responsibilities for minor repairs as a tenant in Utrecht. Learn what you must do yourself and when the landlord steps in, according to tenancy law. (128 characters)

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Minor Repairs by the Tenant in Utrecht

In Dutch tenancy law, specifically for tenants in Utrecht, minor repairs by the tenant fall under the tenant's responsibility. These involve minor defects and maintenance arising from daily use that do not require major interventions. The landlord handles larger tasks, while the tenant must keep the property in good condition through simple repairs. This article explains the details, focusing on Utrecht rental practices and supported by legislation and local examples.

What are minor repairs in Utrecht?

Minor repairs include basic maintenance and fixes in a rental property that the tenant handles themselves. These tasks are typically simple, affordable, and doable without specialist knowledge. They differ from major repairs, which are the landlord's responsibility, such as fixing structural defects or replacing main installations.

The law does not strictly define 'minor', but in Utrecht rentals, it refers to tasks requiring minimal effort or cost. Examples include replacing a washer in a faucet or tightening a door handle. This keeps the property habitable and well-maintained without the landlord needing to intervene in trivial matters, especially in Utrecht's vibrant rental market.

Legal basis for tenants in Utrecht

The rules on minor repairs by the tenant are set out in the Civil Code (BW), Book 7, Title 5 on residential leases. Article 7:220 BW requires the landlord to maintain the property, but the tenant must manage and maintain it 'as a good tenant', which includes minor repairs.

Article 7:243 BW holds the tenant liable for damage due to their own fault or neglect, including related minor fixes. If neglected, the landlord can recover costs. The Rental Code from the Ministry of the Interior recommends clearly defining minor repairs in the lease agreement to avoid disputes. Utrecht leases sometimes include a repair contribution, where tenants pay a fixed amount for minor tasks, but it must remain reasonable (Article 7:257(1) BW). For social housing in Utrecht, additional rules apply under the Housing Act, but the core principles remain the same. Non-minor repairs fall to the landlord (Article 7:220(2) BW). For disputes, contact the District Court of Utrecht.

Practical examples of minor repairs in Utrecht

Tenants in Utrecht often encounter everyday issues in their apartments or row houses. Some typical cases:

  • Faucets or toilets: Replacing a worn washer in the kitchen faucet or clearing a clogged drain with household items.
  • Doors and locks: Tightening hinges or lubricating a squeaky lock, common in older Utrecht properties.
  • Lighting and outlets: Changing a lightbulb or resetting a tripped breaker (if safe to do so).
  • Walls and paint: Touching up small scratches or refreshing a sealant joint in the shower.
  • Gardens or balconies: Mowing grass or weeding a balcony overlooking the canals.

Example: In a Utrecht apartment block, the bathroom door handle is loose. This is a typical minor repair by the tenant that can be fixed with basic tools, without bothering the landlord. But if the door is warped due to a construction flaw, the landlord calls in a professional. Another case: You knock over a lamp while moving into your room along the Oudegracht. Replace it yourself if it's standard; for serious damage like a crack from leakage, it's the landlord's duty.

Comparison: Minor vs. major repairs in Utrecht

Aspect Minor Repairs (Tenant) Major Repairs (Landlord)
Costs < €50-100, tenant pays > €100, landlord funds
Complexity Simple, DIY Requires professional
Examples Change bulb, fix sealant Repair roof, replace boiler
Legal obligation Art. 7:220 BW (good tenancy) Art. 7:220(2) BW (maintenance duty)

This table clearly outlines the distinction. For landlord obligations in Utrecht, see our article Right to Maintenance and Repairs - What Must the Landlord in Utrecht Do?. If in doubt, contact Het Juridisch Loket Utrecht for free advice.

Rights and obligations of the tenant in Utrecht

As a tenant in Utrecht, you are entitled to enjoy the property without minor issues disrupting your living comfort. However, you must stay on top of minor repairs. Neglect can lead to fines or lease termination (Article 7:231 BW).

  1. Reporting duty: Handle minor tasks yourself, but report major defects in writing to the landlord within a reasonable time (Article 7:222 BW).
  2. Cost reimbursement: With a repair contribution, you can claim extra expenses if the landlord agrees.
  3. Safety first: Avoid risky tasks like electrical work without expertise; hire a professional and seek reimbursement.
  4. End of tenancy: Return the property in the same condition at the end, minus normal wear and tear. The Municipality of Utrecht provides information on rental inspections.

For personal advice on renting in Utrecht, contact Het Juridisch Loket Utrecht – they assist with local tenancy issues.

Veelgestelde vragen

Wat is mijn retourrecht?

Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.

Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?

Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.

Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?

Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.

Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?

Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.

Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?

Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.