In Zoetermeer, a growing city in the Randstad with a thriving rental market, deposit and key money are often confused, but they differ fundamentally in legal terms. A deposit (Dutch Civil Code, Article 7:220) is a security sum for potential damage or outstanding payments, which must be fully refundable at the end of the tenancy. Key money, however, is a one-time payment that landlords sometimes demand for 'access' to the property, but it does not enjoy the same legal protection. Landlords in Zoetermeer may never use a deposit as a cover for prohibited key money practices, which are strictly enforced by local Tenants’ Support Teams (Huurteams) and the subdistrict court (kantonrechter).
Typical issue in Zoetermeer: A landlord withholds €250 for 'key costs' from the deposit without any evidence or invoice. Solution: Demand a detailed settlement of the deposit within 30 days of moving out. No response within this period? File a claim with the subdistrict court in Zoetermeer, including statutory interest of 9% on the withheld amount. The District Court of The Hague, which has jurisdiction over Zoetermeer, handles such cases efficiently.
Example: A tenant in Zoetermeer took her landlord to court and won decisively. The subdistrict court ordered the repayment of €220 because no invoice for key copies or replacement was provided. Tip: Always create a detailed key handover protocol during check-in and check-out, including timestamped photos of the keys and the property’s condition. In Zoetermeer, local tenants’ organizations such as Huurteam Zoetermeer advise having this protocol signed by an independent witness. This protects you against unjustified withholdings and strengthens your legal position in disputes.