There are many things to arrange if you are relocating to, moving to a new address or just bought a new house in the Netherlands. One of these things is setting up your home utilities, such as water, electricity, gas and internet.
Utilities for renters & homeowners in the Netherlands
Whether or not you can choose your own utility providers in the Netherlands depends on your living situation. Make sure you thoroughly read through your rental contract, so you are aware of what is and isn't included in your rent.
Renters
If you're renting in the Netherlands, you may find that utilities are already included in your rent. Check with your landlord if you are not sure. If they are, you don't need to do anything - all your bills will be covered by your rent, but you may be asked to submit meter readings and pay extra if you go over "normal usage".
If utilities aren't included, you'll be expected to set up your own utilities. You can find information on doing this via the guides below. It's not usually possible to transfer the contracts held by the previous tenant over to yourself, and in any case it's a good idea to shop around for the best deal.
Homeowners
If you buy a house, you'll need to sort out all your utilities yourself, including electricity, gas, water, internet and the phone line (if you want one). Sometimes it might be possible to get the old contracts transferred into your name, which can save you time and hassle. It's a good idea to take meter readings on the day you move in, so you only pay for the energy and water you use.
Energy (electricity and gas) providers
In the Netherlands, regional companies are responsible for the transportation of energy (electricity and gas). Since 2004, the energy market has been privatised. This means that you can choose your own energy supplier.
Water companies
Whilst you can choose your own energy supplier, you can’t choose your own water supplier since the Dutch water grid is not privatised. There are 10 water supply companies in the Netherlands.
Internet providers
The Netherlands consistently ranks high compared to other countries in the world when it comes to internet coverage and speed. Internet providers in the Netherlands offer internet via the cable, ADSL/VDSL and fibre optics. Learn more and choose the internet provider that best suits your needs.
Phone line
Most internet providers also provide "alles-in-1" (all-in-one) packages, which also includes a phone line. It is usually more advantageous to get one of these all-in-one packages. Find out more about getting a phone line in the Netherlands.
Garbage disposal, recycling & statiegeld in the Netherlands
Want to understand how to separate your rubbish in the Netherlands? What goes in which bin? How does recycling work? What is statiegeld and how do you throw away broken electricals, batteries and large, bulky items? Our guide to garbage disposal, recycling and statiegeld in the Netherlands has all the answers.
Paying your utility bills
Utility bills are usually paid once per month, normally by direct debit (although it may be possible to be billed monthly, and then manually transfer the money to the provider). Your bill will show a breakdown of your usage (if applicable) and costs, which includes supply costs, unit costs and administrative fees. Your water bill will usually come once per year or once per quarter, depending on where you live. It may be possible to split the payments up into monthly installments.
Unless you have a smart meter (which automatically updates the provider with your usage data), you'll also be asked to submit a meter reading at least once per year, so your projected usage can be compared with your actual usage. If you have used more energy or water than expected, you might be asked to pay the difference, or see your monthly payments go up. At the same time, if your usage is lower than expected, you can look forward to a refund or lower monthly payments.
Changing utility providers
The utility market in the Netherlands is privatised (with the exception of water companies), meaning you are free to choose your own provider. That being said, you do need to be aware of minimum contract terms; you can be fined if you choose to end a contract early. If your contract is indefinite, however, you can switch at any point by deregistering from your old provider and signing up with the new one. Some providers may handle the whole switchover process on your behalf.