When you rent a home in the Netherlands, several monthly costs come on top of your rent. This overview tells you what they are, who you pay and where to find our guide for each one.
Check what is already in your rent
Some rentals include energy, water or internet in the rent or in the service costs. Check your rental contract first, so you don’t arrange something twice.
Energy and gas
You choose your own energy supplier for electricity and gas. The grid operator, which looks after the network, depends on where you live. Read the energy guide.
Water
You don’t choose your water company: your address decides. Register with them from the day you get the keys. Read the water guide.
Internet and TV
Internet is usually not part of your rent. Check which connection your address has and order early. Read the internet guide.
Municipal taxes
Your municipality charges local taxes, for example a waste collection levy (afvalstoffenheffing) and a sewerage charge (rioolheffing). Which ones apply, and how much they are, differs per municipality.
Water board tax
Your regional water board (waterschap) charges a yearly tax, among other things for treating waste water. More about water taxes.
Insurance
Health insurance is compulsory for everyone who lives or works here. Contents and liability insurance are not required by law, but your rental agreement may require contents insurance. Check your contract. Read the guides on health insurance and contents insurance.
Registration, DigiD and a bank account
You need these to arrange the rest: register with your municipality, apply for DigiD and open a bank account.
Arrange it in the right order
Our checklist puts everything in three stages: before you move in, check-in day and your first weeks. Prefer help? We set up your utilities online for €99, including VAT.
Sources: rijksoverheid.nl, municipal taxes and the sources in each guide. Checked November 2026.