A Maintenance Defect, Not a Subsidy Issue
There is no specific government subsidy in the Netherlands for basement waterproofing. The reason is simple: a dry basement is not considered an 'improvement' or a 'sustainability measure'—it is a basic requirement of a habitable dwelling. A leaking, wet, or persistently damp basement (vochtige kelder) is legally considered a gebrek (defect) that severely impacts the tenant's woongenot (quiet enjoyment of the home). As such, the responsibility to investigate the cause and carry out the necessary repairs to waterproof the basement lies 100% with the landlord, at their own expense.
Landlord's Duty to Provide a Dry Space
The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the entire rented property, including the basement and foundation. Problems that lead to a wet basement, such as rising damp (optrekkend vocht), penetrating damp through the walls, or a high groundwater level (grondwaterstand), are the landlord's responsibility to solve. This can involve complex and expensive work like installing a sump pump, applying special waterproof coatings to the walls, or improving ventilation. A landlord cannot refuse to fix a damp basement by claiming they cannot get a subsidy for it; it is their fundamental duty of care as a property owner.
Tenant's Rights
A damp basement is more than just an inconvenience; it can damage stored belongings, cause a persistent musty smell throughout the home, and lead to unhealthy mold growth (schimmel). A tenant experiencing these issues must report them to the landlord in writing, with photos, and request a plan of action. If the landlord fails to address the problem in a reasonable time, the tenant has the right to start a procedure at the Huurcommissie (Rent Tribunal). The Huurcommissie can investigate the defect and, if it is deemed serious, can order the landlord to perform the repairs and may grant the tenant a significant, temporary rent reduction until the problem is fully resolved.
