Deposit Settlement After Lease Termination in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the deposit is a crucial financial security that landlords hold for possible damage to rental properties in the vibrant city. After termination of the lease, settlement must take place on the basis of the end inspection protocol, often under the guidance of the Amsterdam Huurteam. BW Book 7 Article 7:237 obliges the landlord to repay the amount within one month after departure, unless demonstrable damage has been established during the inspection in neighbourhoods such as the Jordaan or De Pijp. Deductions are only permitted for tenant damage, not for normal wear and tear or arrears in maintenance by the landlord, which frequently occurs in Amsterdam canal houses. Tenants receive a detailed specification of deductions, including invoices. In case of disputes, the Huurteam provides free advice and mediation; if not, an amicable demand follows and possibly proceedings before the Amsterdam cantonal court. Interest on the deposit continues until disbursement and must be settled by landlords. Consider a bank guarantee as an alternative to avoid high costs in the expensive Amsterdam rental market. The Huurcommissie handles complaints about unreasonable deductions, with specific attention to the stricter local rules against usurious demands. Carefully preserve all correspondence, protocols and Huurteam documents. Landlords may not demand a double deposit, not even for room rentals in the city centre. In the event of interim termination, such as renovations in Oud-Zuid, pro rata rules apply. Transparent settlement maintains good relations in the competitive Amsterdam rental market and prevents legal escalation. Tenants can file a damage claim for late repayment, with possible assistance from the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam. (248 words)