Renting in Rotterdam as an expat: how it works

Rotterdam is a popular city for internationals, and good rental homes move fast. The tenants who find a home quickly are usually the ones who know how the Dutch rental market works before they start. This guide walks you through the essentials.

1. Have your documents ready

Most landlords in the Netherlands want to see the same set of documents before they accept a tenant. If you have these ready before your first viewing, you can respond the same day when a home comes up:

• A copy of your passport or ID card (and your residence permit, if applicable).
• Proof of income: your employment contract and recent payslips, or an employer statement if you are about to start.
• For self-employed tenants: recent financial statements or an accountant’s letter.
• Sometimes a reference from a previous landlord.

As a rule of thumb, many landlords look for a gross monthly income of around three times the monthly rent. Not sure if you qualify for a specific home? Ask us, we will tell you honestly.

2. Furnished, upholstered or unfurnished?

Dutch listings use three categories, and they mean something different from what many internationals expect:

• Unfurnished (kaal): often without flooring, curtains or light fittings. You bring everything yourself.
• Upholstered (gestoffeerd): flooring, curtains and lighting are in place, but no furniture.
• Furnished (gemeubileerd): ready to move in, including furniture and usually kitchen essentials.

If you are coming from abroad with a few suitcases, furnished or upholstered is usually the practical choice. We always confirm exactly what is included before you sign.

3. The rental contract and the deposit

Rent in the Netherlands is paid monthly in advance. On top of the first month, landlords ask for a deposit, in most cases one or two months’ rent. You receive it back at the end of the tenancy, provided the home is returned in good condition.

Since 2024, open-ended contracts are the norm in the Netherlands and temporary contracts are only allowed in specific situations. Whatever applies to your home, we go through the agreement with you line by line, so you know exactly what you are signing: the notice period, what is included in the rent, and who is responsible for what.

Pay attention to the difference between the basic rent and service costs. Utilities such as gas, electricity, water and internet are often arranged by the tenant, unless the listing says otherwise.

4. After you sign: registering at your address

Once you have a signed contract, you register at your new address with the municipality of Rotterdam. This registration in the personal records database (BRP) gives you a citizen service number (BSN), which you need for work, health insurance, a bank account and more. Your rental contract is the document that makes this possible, so make sure it is in your name.

Moving in is also the moment to take photos of the home and record the meter readings together with the landlord. It is a small effort that prevents discussions about the deposit later.

5. How we help you through all of this

You do not have to figure this out alone. At Expat Quality Housing we start by listening to what you need: budget, location, furnished or not, timing. You then receive a selection of homes that actually fit, with honest advice on each one. We arrange and join the viewings, explain the contract in plain English and stay in touch until you have settled in.

Curious what is available right now? Have a look at our current homes in the Rotterdam region, or read more about how we work with tenants.