Demand Rent Reduction for Defects in Rental Property in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, as a tenant, you can demand rent reduction for defects in your rental property as a countermeasure against a summons from the landlord. According to the Good Landlordship Act (article 7:213 DCC), every rental property in the city must be habitable, taking into account the high pressure on the Amsterdam housing market. Report defects such as mold in old canal houses or leaks in high-rise buildings in writing to your landlord, preferably via the official reporting app of the Municipality of Amsterdam, and attach photos. No response within 14 days? This justifies a rent reduction of 10-100%, depending on the severity: for example, 40% for leakage, 60% for unusable heating during severe winters. The Amsterdam Rent Tribunal rules bindingly and quickly in this region. Offset the reduction directly against your rent or the summons debt, but substantiate this thoroughly with evidence. In case of a summons for rent arrears: use housing defects as a strong defense against eviction, especially in popular neighborhoods such as De Pijp or Oost. Build a complaints dossier with reports to the neighborhood teams. The court may suspend eviction until repairs are made, in accordance with local precedents. Check the NEN 2767 quality list for minimum standards and the Amsterdam Housing Ordinance for additional requirements regarding energy labels. For structural problems in outdated complexes: demand termination of the tenancy via the Rent Tribunal. Report serious cases to the municipality for enforcement as well. This strengthens your position in the competitive Amsterdam rental market. Document everything carefully for success. Assistance via Woonbond Amsterdam or Juridisch Loket in the city. (248 words)