Damp and mould problems are still common in Dutch homes. Especially in rental properties, residents can sometimes deal with complaints for a long time before a structural solution is found. The consequences do not only affect living comfort, but can also have an impact on health, energy costs and ultimately the quality of the property.

More households are experiencing damp problems

In 2024, approximately 20% of Dutch households reported experiencing damp or mould in their home. In 2021, this figure was still 15%.

The problem is even greater in housing association properties. In 2024, approximately 29% of these homes were affected by damp or mould, compared with 24% three years earlier.

This means that a significant proportion of households live every day in conditions that are not only uncomfortable, but can also cause damage to the property and personal belongings.

Health problems can be serious

Long-term exposure to damp and mould can affect health. Children and people with respiratory problems are particularly vulnerable.

Damp homes can be associated with coughing, respiratory infections and asthma. In addition, a damp home is often more difficult to keep warm, which can also lead to higher energy costs for residents.

The problem should therefore not be seen simply as a cosmetic defect where some mould only needs to be removed. The underlying cause must be investigated and resolved.

Who is responsible for the solution?

In a rental property, the landlord is generally responsible for defects that fall under the maintenance obligations of the property.

Residents can contribute by ventilating sufficiently and properly removing moisture, but when structural causes, leaks or inadequate ventilation facilities are involved, further action may be necessary.

If a landlord does not take sufficient action after problems have been reported, tenants can take further steps. Figures on proceedings before the Rent Tribunal show that tenants are found to be in the right in many disputes involving mould problems.

Inspection is also important when buying a home

Damp and mould are not only important issues for tenants. Such problems can also have major consequences when buying a property.

Mould spots may, for example, be caused by poor ventilation, but also by leaks, rising damp, façade problems or insufficient insulation.

That is why it is important to look beyond only the visible finish of a property during a viewing.

How does OZQUR Makelaardij view this?

At OZQUR Makelaardij, we consider damp and mould problems an important point of attention in both purchases and sales.

When assisting with a purchase, we look for signs such as damp patches, discolouration, condensation, odours and possible structural causes. If there is reason to do so, we recommend an additional structural inspection before a final decision is made.

For sellers, known problems should not be covered up or hidden. A clear analysis of the cause and, where possible, a proper solution can prevent disputes afterwards.

At OZQUR Makelaardij, we help you reach your dream home in 5 steps

01 — Getting acquainted & identifying your housing wishes
We start with you. We get to know you, build trust and clearly identify your housing wishes and most important criteria.

→ Understand first, then search.

02 — Determining your budget & possibilities
Together with the buying agent and financial advisor, we determine your mortgage possibilities, budget and ideal search range.

→ Know what is possible before we start searching.

03 — Viewing together
You focus on how the property feels. We take a critical look at the technical condition, location, possibilities and points of attention.

→ You decide whether it feels like home. We look at the rest.

04 — Determining the value & bidding smartly
We analyse comparable properties that have been sold, discuss the property with the selling agent and assess the expected appraisal value. We then determine the bidding strategy together and submit the offer.

→ Not just bidding, but making a well-founded offer.

05 — From accepted offer to the notary
Offer accepted? We then review the documents and purchase agreement, monitor all important deadlines and guide the entire process through to the notary.

→ We stay in control until you receive the keys.

Yucel Samanci
Buying and selling agent at OZQUR Makelaardij, specialised in purchasing strategy, negotiations and assisting Dutch, Turkish and expat clients.
(16 January 2026)