Utilities
In the Netherlands, you’ll choose separate providers for gas, electricity, and water.
- Gas & electricity: You can compare and select your provider based on cost, sustainability, or service.
- Fixed contracts: Offer stable prices for a set period but come with a penalty for early termination.
- Flexible contracts: Allow you to switch providers easily but prices may vary monthly.
- Popular suppliers include Budget Energie, Vattenfall, and Essent.
- Most known (Dutch) comparison website: Gaslicht
- Water: Water is supplied by a regional provider based on your location. Use your postcode to find your water company online.
- Internet: You will need to arrange your own internet provider (unless it's included in the rental agreement).
- Metering: Each property has separate meters for gas, electricity, and water. Your bills are based on actual usage. Always make photo’s
- Billing: Most payments are fixed monthly estimates. Once a year, your usage is reconciled, which may lead to a refund or extra charge.
- Direct Debit: Most people set up direct debit to automatically pay bills and avoid missed payments.
Insurance
- Liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering): Covers unintentional damage you cause to others' property. Affordable and recommended, especially for incidents like leaks affecting neighbors.
- Contents insurance (inboedelverzekering): Protects your personal belongings (e.g., furniture, electronics) from fire, theft, or water damage. It’s not essential for everyone, especially if you live in a furnished home or have low-value items.