Are You Freezing in Your Amsterdam Apartment? Forget the "19°C Rule.

" Here’s Why Your Walls (and Wallet) Need a Change.

Living in the Netherlands, you know the scenario well: typical damp autumn weather outside, and you’re sitting inside wearing a sweater, wondering if turning up the thermostat will ruin your budget. For years, we’ve been fed the rule: "Set it to 19°C, put on slippers, and save money." We have news that might surprise you: This is outdated advice that, in the Dutch climate, could cost you more than you think.

At Tommy's Service, we know Amsterdam canal houses and Dutch construction inside out. Today, we explain why experts are moving away from the "cold approach" and why the key to success isn't freezing, but smart insulation.

The 19°C Rule Myth vs. Dutch Dampness

The old 19°C rule originated in the 1970s during the energy crisis. However, modern engineering and medical knowledge are clear: 20°C–21°C is the new standard for a healthy home.

Why is this particularly important in the Netherlands? Because of humidity. The Netherlands is a country of water. In a typical Amsterdam apartment (especially on the ground floor or under the roof), maintaining a temperature below 18-19°C with high air humidity is an invitation for mold (schimmel).

Cold walls + damp air = condensation. Water condenses on cold masonry, creating the perfect environment for fungi that destroy plaster, building structures, and—worst of all—your lungs.

The Law is on Your Side: Amsterdam and Building Regulations

In the context of Dutch law, and specifically regulations in Amsterdam, the issue of temperature and insulation takes on legal significance:

1. Landlord Responsibility (Huurcommissie): Under Dutch tenancy law, serious mold problems resulting from structural defects (lack of insulation, thermal bridges) can be grounds for rent reduction via the Huurcommissie. The landlord is obliged to provide a property free from defects that threaten health.

2. Energy Labels (Energielabels): The Dutch government and Amsterdam authorities are aiming to eliminate homes with low energy ratings (E, F, G). By 2030, renting out "cold homes" may become illegal.

3. Building Decree (Bouwbesluit / Bbl): Building regulations require appropriate insulation levels for any major renovation.

If you are an owner—investing in warmth is a necessity to maintain property value. If you rent—you have the right to demand a standard where you don't have to choose between warmth and fungus-free walls.

Don’t Heat the Street – Insulate with Tommy's Service!

Cranking the heat up to a healthy 21°C in an uninsulated house is financial suicide. Heat escapes through leaky windows, roofs, and—as is common in Amsterdam—thin, uninsulated walls.

The solution? Keep the heat inside.

At Tommy's Service, we specialize in renovations that turn cold walls into cozy homes, complying with Dutch standards. What can we do for you?

• Internal Wall Insulation (Voorzetwanden): Many buildings in Amsterdam are monuments (Rijksmonument) where the facade cannot be touched. The ideal solution is professional insulation from the inside. We build false walls with mineral wool or PIR boards, which drastically increase thermal comfort.

• Ceiling and Floor Insulation: No more cold drafts coming from the neighbor below or heat escaping to the attic.

• Draft Proofing: We eliminate the drafts that make you feel like you're still outside.

Why Is It Worth It?

Instead of shivering at 19 degrees, you can have a stable 21°C at home while paying lower bills. Good insulation allows your heating boiler to work less frequently but more efficiently—maintaining temperature rather than panicking to "reheat" chilled walls.

Benefits of working with Tommy's Service: ✅ We know local regulations: We know how to renovate in Amsterdam to comply with the law and craftsmanship standards. ✅ Comprehensive Service: From wall assessment to insulation and "turnkey" finishing. ✅ Health: We eliminate thermal bridges, preventing the return of mold.

Time for Climate Change... in Your Home!

Don't let anyone tell you that freezing is eco-friendly. "Eco" means a tight, well-insulated house that uses little energy while providing the comfort you deserve.

Are you tired of dampness, cold walls, and high bills from Vattenfall or Eneco?

👉 Contact Tommy's Service today! Check our offer and request a professional valuation to see how we can turn your home into a warm fortress.

🌐 Visit us at: www.tommysservice.nl

Tommy's Service – Your partner for renovations in the Netherlands.