May the deposit in Zoetermeer be indexed?
Yes, in Zoetermeer the deposit may be adjusted annually to inflation pursuant to Article 7:249 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), provided this is explicitly included in the lease agreement. This follows the consumer price index (CPI) of Statistics Netherlands (CBS), which is common in the Zoetermeer-Stad and Rokkeveen areas for rental properties in new-build complexes such as Zoetermeer City Centre.
Calculation method for Zoetermeer
Formula: New deposit = Old deposit × (New CPI / Old CPI). Example specific to Zoetermeer: For a deposit of €1200 and CPI increase from 118 to 123 (recent CBS data), the new deposit is €1250.85. Local landlords in Zoetermeer often apply this to rental prices around €900-€1400 per month.
Procedure for adjustment in Zoetermeer
- Send timely written notice with detailed calculation, preferably by e-mail or registered mail, in accordance with local practices at housing associations such as Vidomes.
- Tenant pays the difference; landlord deposits the deposit into a blocked account at a notary office in Zoetermeer.
- Upon termination of the tenancy, the adjusted deposit is refunded, taking into account any damage settlements via the Zoetermeer Rent Committee.
Disputes and limits in Zoetermeer
The deposit in Zoetermeer may never exceed two months' rent (statutory maximum under the Dutch Civil Code). In case of exceedance, the tenant may demand a reduction via the municipality or Rent Committee. The local Zoetermeer Rent Team strictly reviews indexations, especially for social housing in neighbourhoods such as Palenstein and Seghwaert, and offers free advice to tenants.