How do I become a co-tenant?
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Detailed explanation, checklist and sources
A spouse or registered partner living in the property is often automatically a co-tenant. Other cohabitants usually have to submit a written request together with the main tenant.
General information about Dutch law · Review date not recorded · How we work
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Automatic co-tenancy
In the case of marriage or registered partnership, co-tenancy may arise by operation of law as long as the property is the main residence. Inform the landlord and check how the contract and administration have been recorded.
Apply for co-tenancy
Other cohabitants generally must demonstrate a durable joint household and sufficient duration of residence. Submit the request together with the main tenant and include evidence of main residence and the joint household.
If the landlord refuses
The landlord must respond within three months. In the event of rejection or no response, the main tenant and intended co-tenant may jointly ask the court for co-tenancy.
Your checklist
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Tick what you have checked or collected. Note what is missing and take your overview to a meeting.
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Who is currently named on the lease agreement
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Your timeline and evidence
List events and contacts. Note where you keep the evidence; no upload is needed.
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Record what happened, when, the response and where to find the letter, message or photo. Mark uncertain dates.
Is my evidence sent?
No. You only note where it is kept. No files are uploaded or sent automatically.
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For each event, note the date, what happened and where the evidence is kept. Example: 3 October — letter received — correspondence folder.
Describe the solution you would like, such as an explanation of a deduction and repayment of the outstanding amount.
For example: which document is missing, who can provide it and what should I do first?
Record the date and its source. If unknown, note this and check promptly. This tool does not calculate or monitor deadlines.
After your conversation
These are your own notes. Confirm agreements with the other person; these notes do not prove their agreement.
This is your preparation, not a submitted request, objection or legally reviewed document. A tick records only your own progress. Check the procedure and deadline in the original letter.
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- Who is currently named on the lease agreement
- Main residence in the property
- Duration of cohabitation
- Evidence of a joint household
- Written joint request
- Landlord's response date
Frequently asked questions
Do I become a co-tenant merely by registering with the municipality?
No. Registration may be evidence of main residence, but outside marriage or a registered partnership it does not automatically make you a co-tenant.
Can the landlord require a new contract with higher rent?
Have this assessed. There may be a difference between continuing an existing lease and entering into a new contract.