Beyond specific legal notices for things like rent increases or entry, a good landlord has a general obligation to keep their tenants informed about any issues or planned activities that may affect their home, their use of the property, or their general woongenot (quiet enjoyment). This principle of tenant notification is part of the broader legal concept of goed verhuurderschap (good landlordship). While not every notification is legally mandated with a strict timeline, clear and timely communication is the hallmark of a professional landlord and is essential for maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship.
Common Types of Notifications
Tenants should expect to receive notifications about a variety of planned events. These are often posted in the communal hallway or sent via email. Examples include: 1. Planned Maintenance: Notification of scheduled maintenance on communal systems, such as the elevator, the central heating boiler, or the water supply. This is particularly important if it will result in a temporary shutdown of services. 2. Cleaning Schedules: Information about when the windows of the communal areas or the facade will be washed. 3. Access for Meter Readings: While most meters are now smart, for older systems, the grid operator may need access, and the landlord should inform residents of the scheduled date. 4. Changes in Property Management: If the landlord hires a new property manager or sells the building, tenants must be formally notified of who their new point of contact is.
Importance of Written Communication
While a notice posted in the hallway is common, the best practice for landlords is to provide important notifications via a durable medium like email. For the tenant, it is equally important that any significant communication from them to the landlord is in writing. A verbal notification about a serious defect is not enough. Following up with an email creates a dated record that can be used as evidence if a dispute arises later. Clear, written communication is the foundation of a well-managed tenancy.
