After Move-in
Basics
Separate Suppliers: In the Netherlands, you'll choose one provider for gas and electricity, and a separate company for water.
Gas & Electricity Choice: You have the freedom to compare and choose your gas and electricity supplier based on price, sustainability practices, or customer service.
Regional Water: Water is typically provided by a single company based on your specific region. We'll explore finding your regional water supplier in a bit.
Metering: Each household has separate meters for gas, electricity, and water. These meters track your actual consumption, which forms the basis for your bills.
Estimated Billing: Unlike some countries with monthly usage-based bills, the Netherlands usually employs a system of fixed monthly payments based on estimated usage.
Annual Reconciliation: Once a year, you'll receive a final bill that adjusts for your actual consumption compared to the estimates. This can result in a refund for overpayments or an additional charge if you used more than expected.
Direct Debit: Most utility bills are conveniently paid through direct debit (automatische incasso), ensuring timely payments and avoiding missed due dates.
Finding Your Regional Water Company
Sometimes, water is included in your rent (though not very common). If it's not, you'll need to set up a separate water contract. Unlike gas and electricity, water is provided by regional water boards (waterschappen) specific to your area. Here's how to find yours:
Use Your Address: Visit this website and enter your postcode in the search bar. This will identify the water board responsible for your area.
Visit their Website: Most water boards have user-friendly websites where you can sign up for service and manage your account. Look for the English language option if available.
Sign Up Online: Signing up for water service is typically a straightforward online process.
Payment Schedule: Water bills are often set to quarterly payments by default. Check your account settings and adjust them to monthly payments if preferred.
Choosing an Energy Supplier
The Dutch energy market is deregulated — that allows you to compare and choose your gas and electricity provider based on factors like price, sustainability practices, or customer service.
Contract Types
Fixed Contracts: These offer a fixed price for energy for a set period (usually 1-4 years). This provides stability but prices may not always be the most competitive at the time of signing the contract. If you have a fixed contract, switching to another provider will cost you a penalty.
Flexible Contracts: These offer more flexibility to switch providers if you find a better deal. However, prices may be changing even monthly, depending on market conditions.
Supplier Options
While there's no single "best" supplier, most of Uprent customers prefer Vattenfall, Budget Energie, Engie and Essent.
By the way, you can also compare SIM plans here.