Many international staff keep their home in The Hague when their posting ends, and rent it out until they return or sell. A well-prepared home rents faster, attracts better tenants and gives fewer problems while you are far away.
1. Repair and refresh
- Paintwork: neutral, fresh walls and ceilings make a home look ready to move into. See painting.
- Small repairs: sticking doors, dripping taps, loose tiles, worn sealant and cracks in plaster.
- Floors: a sanded or renewed floor makes a big difference in photos and viewings.
- Durable choices: washable paint, hard-wearing floors and simple fittings reduce maintenance while you are away.
2. Installations and safety
- Have the boiler or heat pump serviced and keep the maintenance report.
- Check the electrical installation, especially in older homes.
- Smoke alarms are mandatory on every floor of a home in the Netherlands. Test them and replace old ones.
- Make sure the ventilation works, especially in the bathroom and kitchen, to prevent mould.
3. Energy label and sustainability
The energy label matters to tenants because of the energy costs. In the regulated and mid-rent segments it also counts in the points system that determines the maximum rent. Insulation, better glass or a heat pump can improve the label. Read heat pump, solar panels or insulation first? and see our sustainability service.
4. Rules and permissions
- Mortgage lender: many mortgages require permission before you rent out.
- VvE: in an apartment, check the rules of the owners' association.
- Municipality: The Hague and surrounding municipalities can have rules for renting out homes. Check them before you advertise.
- Rental law: rent protection in the Netherlands is strong, and the rules on temporary contracts and maximum rents have changed in recent years. A rental agent or lawyer can advise you. For owners who leave temporarily there is a special arrangement, often called the diplomatenclausule, with strict conditions.
5. While you are away
Arrange a local contact for emergencies, such as a rental agent, and keep a contractor you trust for repairs. We can carry out repairs and maintenance on your behalf while you are abroad. Read renovating your home while you are posted abroad.
Ready to prepare your home?
Working for an international organisation or embassy? We help you prepare your home for the next phase. Request a free quote.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need permission to rent out my home?
Often you need permission from your mortgage lender, and in an apartment the VvE rules may apply. The municipality can have its own rules for renting out. Check this before you sign a rental agreement.
Is there a special arrangement for owners who leave temporarily?
Dutch law has an arrangement for owners who temporarily rent out their own home while they are away, often called the diplomatenclausule. The conditions are strict, so get legal advice before you use it.
Does the energy label affect the rent?
In the regulated and mid-rent segments, the energy label counts in the points system that determines the maximum rent. A better label can therefore mean a higher permitted rent. Check the current rules for your situation.
