Granite Countertops

A Symbol of Natural Luxury

Granite (graniet) is a type of natural igneous rock that is cut, polished, and used as a high-end material for kitchen countertops (aanrechtbladen). Its appeal lies in its durability, heat resistance, and the fact that each slab has a unique, natural pattern of colors and crystals. For decades, granite was the go-to choice for luxury kitchens, signifying a significant investment in quality materials. In the Dutch rental market, the presence of a granite countertop often indicates a property that received a high-quality renovation, typically in the late 1990s or 2000s, before engineered materials became more dominant.

High Maintenance and High Risk for Tenants

Despite its reputation for toughness, granite is a porous natural stone, which makes it susceptible to staining if not properly maintained. Spills of acidic substances like wine, citrus juice, or oil can penetrate the stone and leave a permanent mark if not cleaned up immediately. To prevent this, granite countertops require periodic sealing. This maintenance burden creates a significant risk for a tenant. Who is responsible for ensuring the countertop is sealed? If a stain occurs, is it because of the tenant's negligence or the landlord's failure to maintain the sealant? The rental agreement is unlikely to specify this. A landlord may hold the tenant liable for any stains or chips that occur during the tenancy, potentially leading to a very large deduction from the security deposit (borg) to cover the cost of professionally polishing or even replacing the stone. A tenant should be aware that this luxury feature comes with a high degree of responsibility and potential financial liability.