Maintenance Obligations of Landlord and Tenant in Rental Properties in Rijswijk

Article 7:206 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) divides maintenance obligations in Rijswijk: the landlord is responsible for major maintenance, such as roof repairs, foundations, and façades in neighborhoods like Innen or Steenvoorde. The tenant is responsible for minor maintenance, including painting, replacing locks, and minor door repairs. In Rijswijk, where many rental properties are managed by housing corporations such as Vidomes, it is crucial to report defects promptly in writing via the online portal or email. The landlord must complete repairs within six weeks; otherwise, you may claim a rent reduction through the Rent Commission in The Hague, which has jurisdiction over the region. Tenants in Rijswijk are not permitted to carry out major maintenance themselves, such as addressing leaks in flats on Godfried Bomanslaan. Examples include repairing a faulty tap yourself and offsetting the costs against rent, or having the landlord replace the central heating boiler in a property on Juliana van Stolberglaan. Document everything with photos and send them to the neighborhood manager via messaging apps. In cases of neglect by the landlord, termination of the lease may be sought through the subdistrict court in The Hague. Model contracts from the Municipality of Rijswijk clearly specify responsibilities. Tenants must keep the property clean and report damage immediately to local rental teams. Landlords conduct annual inspections in Rijswijk housing complexes. In rent-to-own schemes for new-build projects such as Haagse Rand, tenants bear greater responsibility. Tips: Conduct a rental inspection before moving in using the checklist from Woonbond Haaglanden. Low-income households may benefit from maintenance subsidies provided by Rijswijk welfare foundations. Courts in the region penalize negligence with cost orders. Local collaboration through the Rijswijk Tenants’ Platform helps prevent conflicts. This ensures your home in Rijswijk remains habitable and relationships stay positive.