Proof of ownership

The key points at a glance

The proof of ownership (eigendomsbewijs) of a property contains valuable information that you can use, among other things, when buying or selling a home or apartment. You receive it from the notary after the property has been transferred. Still at the start of your search? Calculate how much you can borrow to find out which home fits your budget.

1. Proof of ownership

The proof of ownership shows, among other things, how the property became yours. It also includes information about the seller, the date of purchase, the buyer, the purchase price, and the relevant cadastral plots and their surface areas. Any restrictions on ownership are also included. In that sense, the proof of ownership is the official document that records a large number of the details relating to the sale. The proof of ownership is registered in the Kadaster (the Dutch Land Registry). These are public registers, so you can request a copy at any time. It is therefore possible to request a copy of the proof of ownership from the Kadaster.

2. Investigating ownership rights

A mortgage provider can request your title deed, for example when remortgaging. The notary will also generally request a copy of the proof of ownership to check whether the seller actually has the right to dispose of the property. This is the right to transfer a property or encumber it with other rights. This is not the case, for example, if you are renting the property.

Bear in mind that the most recent deed may be a deed of exchange, a declaration of inheritance, or a sale of ground lease or building rights. It's also possible to request an older deed if you want a specific copy of the proof of ownership. When investigating ownership rights using the proof of ownership, it's particularly worth paying close attention to any easements (erfdienstbaarheden). This is the right to use a piece of land that belongs to someone else.

3. Requesting a copy of the proof of ownership

You can request a copy of the proof of ownership (online) from the public registers of the Kadaster, though you'll usually need to pay for this. When you submit a request, you'll receive the relevant deed as it currently appears in the cadastral records. If it concerns a land consolidation deed (ruilverkavelingsakte), where owners have swapped land, you'll receive a Kadastraal Bericht Eigenaar (cadastral owner notification). In that case it's not possible to supply the original deed, but you'll receive an extract from this document. In all other cases, you'll receive a copy of the proof of ownership for the property.

4. How long does it take to receive a proof of ownership?

On average it takes one day to receive a copy of the proof of ownership if you opt for a paper version. If a digital version in your inbox is enough, you can expect a copy within a few hours at most, giving you immediate access. You can request a copy of the proof of ownership for any property in the Netherlands, so you're not limited to the home you live in.

Frequently asked questions

What is a proof of ownership?

The proof of ownership is a document you receive after the transfer of a property. It contains information about the buyer, the seller, the purchase price, and how the home came into your possession.

When do I need a proof of ownership?

You need the proof of ownership when remortgaging, and the notary requests it to verify that the seller has the right to transfer the property.

How do I request my proof of ownership?

You can request it online from the Kadaster, sometimes for a fee. The document can be received either digitally or in paper form.

How long does it take to receive my proof of ownership?

It takes about a day for the paper version and a few hours for the digital version.

Can I only request a proof of ownership if I'm the owner?

No, you can request a proof of ownership for any property in the Netherlands, regardless of whether you're the owner.