Deposit and Final Inspection upon Termination of Rental Agreement in Amsterdam
Living in Amsterdam and getting your deposit back after the end of your rental agreement? This article explains the specific rules for final inspection, settlement and local resources in the capital.
According to Article 7:266 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), the landlord in Amsterdam must repay the deposit within one month after the end of the tenancy, excluding deductions for defects or damage. In a city like Amsterdam with many rental properties in canal houses and apartment complexes, a joint final inspection is crucial: check walls for mould due to dampness, wooden floors for wear and tear, and installations such as the central heating boiler or kitchen appliances. Make a detailed protocol with timestamps and photos, and share it directly with the landlord.
Amsterdam tenants can turn to Huurteam Amsterdam for free advice in case of disputes or an independent inspector via the municipality. For service charges, such as the high homeowners' association (VvE) contributions in many Amsterdam complexes, request a specification within six months. Is there a dispute? The Huurcommissie in Amsterdam handles many cases quickly, or go to the district court in the Palace of Justice on the Prinsengracht.
Tips for Amsterdam: Thoroughly clean typical urban dirt such as canal mud, repair minor damage such as scratches on parquet flooring yourself. On average, 80% of well-prepared tenants in Amsterdam get their full deposit back. Avoid hidden costs by documenting everything in writing and use local apps such as those from Pararius for inspection checklists.