Rental Deposit in Amsterdam: Withholding and Refund upon Termination

In Amsterdam's vibrant rental market, the deposit protects the landlord against damage in beloved neighborhoods like the Jordaan or De Pijp. When may it be withheld and how do you claim it back according to local practice?

Rules on Deposits in Amsterdam

According to Article 7:266 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), the deposit may amount to a maximum of two months' rent. Landlords must deposit it into a blocked account at a notary office or bank. Upon termination of the tenancy in your Amsterdam canal house: refund within one month after handing over the keys. Huurteam Amsterdam advises tenants to always keep a copy of the account statement.

Grounds for Withholding Specific to Amsterdam

Withholding only for demonstrable damage, outstanding rent or utilities, with invoices as proof. Standard cleaning in an Amsterdam property does not fall under the deposit, unless explicitly stated in the contract – typical for private landlords in Oud-Zuid. Dispute? First to Huurteam Amsterdam for free advice, then Huurcommissie or the district court (kantonrechter) in Amsterdam. Local precedents show that judges are strict on unproven claims.

Step-by-Step Plan for Amsterdam Tenants

1. Prepare a detailed handover statement with photos of the property. 2. Hand over keys to the landlord or agent. 3. Demand the deposit back in writing via registered mail. 4. In case of refusal: contact Huurteam Amsterdam or have summons issued via the district court. Unjustified withholding often leads to interest, court costs and sometimes double the deposit for the landlord. In recent Amsterdam cases, tenants won at the Rechtbank Amsterdam due to lack of evidence. (287 words)