Meter cupboard (meterkast)
Every home has a meter cupboard for the gas, electricity and water meters, and other connections, such as for the phone or television.
City / district heating (stadsverwarming)
In some areas it is possible to use city heating (also known as a heat-distribution grid / warmtenet). There is usually only one supplier for each area, who is both supplier and network operator.
Gas and electricity
You have both a network operator (netbeheerder) and an energy supplier (energieleverancier) .
- The network operator is responsible for ensuring that you are supplied with gas or electricity safely and at all times, and for the maintenance and extension of the energy grid, including the connections. You cannot choose the network operator as this depends on where you live.
- An energy supplier supplies gas and/or electricity to your home. You can choose which gas and/or electricity supplier to use, and you can even choose separate companies for gas and electricity.
- You can compare different energy providers in your area to choose the one that works best for you. There are various platforms and comparison websites in the Netherlands where you can compare the price and service of energy providers.
Internet / television / telephone
There are several options for phone, television and internet, and many providers offer a complete package. Ask the outgoing resident or your real estate agent about the supplier they used.
It is not always necessary to have a landline telephone. Nowadays, many people choose to live without one and use their mobiles to stay in touch.
Mobile phones
All GSM mobile phones work in the Netherlands, but it is still a good idea to switch to a Dutch SIM card when you arrive to avoid paying more for your calls. Go to a mobile phone supplier in town to get a new card and phone if required. Prepaid simcards can also be purchased at grocery stores.
Water
In Brabant, water is supplied through a single supplier - Brabant water. When you move into your new home, you need to read the water meter and notify the supplier that you are the new resident. Your real estate agent can usually help you complete the required forms.
Note that apartment complexes often have a single water meter and each tenant pays a monthly fee towards usage. When the annual bill is received, the owners’ association (Vereniging van Eigenaren, VvE) divides the total cost among all users. If applicable, you may then receive a refund or need to pay an additional amount.