Procedure for Submitting Deposit Specification Request in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, where the rental market is extremely tight with sky-high deposit requirements, a deposit specification request follows a clear procedure to force landlords to provide transparency. Start with a written letter sent by registered mail via PostNL or by email with read receipt. State the rental period, the rental contract number, the date of payment of the deposit – often 2 to 3 months' rent in the capital – and demand a detailed specification within 14 days. Use model letters from the Huurcommissie, Juridisch Loket Amsterdam or Woonbond as templates, available at their local offices on Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal. The landlord must respond with an overview of income, expenses and remaining balance, including receipts and invoices for repairs. If he fails to do so, file a complaint with the Huurcommissie in Amsterdam or the district court of the Rechtbank Amsterdam. Keep all correspondence as evidence. According to article 7:266 BW, the landlord must repay the deposit within one month after the end of the tenancy, minus justified costs such as cleaning costs or minor repairs. In case of dispute, you can recover the full deposit plus statutory interest. Specifically in Amsterdam, pay attention to the strict rules for special rentals such as anti-squatting or expat contracts via platforms like Kamernet. Tips: photograph the property at check-in and check-out with timestamp, make a joint inspection report and document the condition of canal houses or new builds in the Jordaan or Oost. This prevents discussions about wear and tear versus damage due to the Amsterdam salty air. For room rentals in shared properties, the same rules apply, but check house rules and VvE decisions. Consult free advice from Huurteam Amsterdam, SPARTA or the Juridisch Loket for local expertise. (312 words)