In Leiden, the landlord is responsible for major maintenance such as the roof, foundation, and installations, based on art. 7:206 BW. Tenants in student houses around Leiden University or in the historic city centre maintain minor defects such as paint and locks. For the points system for rent increases in Leiden rental properties, the property must be in good condition; defects justify a reduction in the rent price.
Report defects in writing to your landlord; they have two months to repair, in accordance with Leiden rental rules. Otherwise, you can demand rent reduction or carry out repairs yourself with deduction. The minor repair fund obliges tenants to €100 per year for small jobs. In case of neglect, the court in The Hague may impose a rent reduction. Example: leakage due to a defective roof in a canal house often results in 20% discount. Local tenant teams in Leiden, such as Huurteam Leiden, inspect properties in neighbourhoods such as Professorenbuurt or the Levie van Epogebint. Document everything with photos for disputes at the Huurcommissie or district court.