In Leiden, the same specific consumer rights for energy contracts apply as throughout the Netherlands. Switching to a new supplier is straightforward, and the ACM ensures fair oversight of rates and terms. For personal advice on your rights, visit Het Juridisch Loket Leiden, located in the city center.
Switching Suppliers as a Leiden Resident
Switching energy suppliers is smooth for Leiden residents:
- The new supplier handles the entire process
- Your gas and electricity supply remains uninterrupted
- The notice period is at most 30 days
- There are no costs associated with switching (after the first contract year)
Different Types of Energy Contracts
- Fixed Rates - A guaranteed price for an agreed period, ideal for budgeting in Leiden
- Variable Rates - Prices can fluctuate, with the option to cancel monthly
- Dynamic Rates - Hourly rates that follow the market, suitable for flexible households
Rate Changes
If your supplier wants to adjust prices, it must in Leiden and elsewhere:
- Warn you well in advance (at least 10 days)
- Give you the opportunity to terminate the contract
- For fixed contracts: no mid-term increases allowed
Termination of Supply
In Leiden, energy supply may only be terminated after:
- Multiple reminders for outstanding payments have been sent
- A payment plan has been proposed
- Debt assistance via the Municipality of Leiden has been offered
- Vulnerable households are protected during the winter period
If you have payment problems, contact the Municipality of Leiden for support.
The Smart Meter in Leiden
Do you live in Leiden? You do not have to accept a smart meter if you do not want to. Object to your supplier or have the meter blocked to prevent automatic transmission of privacy-sensitive data. Het Juridisch Loket Leiden can help with any disputes.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.