The deposit in rental agreements often forms a source of dispute in Zoetermeer, especially with the many apartments in neighbourhoods such as Buytenwegh and Seghwaert. By law, it may amount to a maximum of two months' base rent (Article 7:266 DCC). A provision demanding more, such as three months or including service charges and parking costs, is null and void. Clauses that offset the deposit against other debts, for example outstanding homeowners' association contributions, without explicit consent are likewise invalid.
Landlords in Zoetermeer must repay the deposit within one month after the end of the tenancy, after deduction of justified costs such as cleaning costs or damage to the Stadsmuseum-like interior. Always keep receipts and photos of the final inspection to avoid disputes at the local Rent Tribunal Zoetermeer. In case of non-repayment: start with a demand letter and involve the Rent Tribunal, which handles cases quickly in Zoetermeer. Interest on the deposit (6% per year) accrues from the first day and is mandatory.
Null and void deposit provisions regularly lead to proceedings before the district court in Zoetermeer, where tenants often prevail. Example: a clause that retains the deposit until all housemates from a shared student house in Rokkeveen have left is legally untenable. Landlords would do well to use the standard rental agreement models from the central government or the municipality of Zoetermeer. Tenants: check the contract upon signing at the Stadstheater or a notary's office and have dubious passages struck out. In case of fraud, such as unjustified deductions for 'wear and tear' in new-build properties on Van der Palmstraat, demand compensation plus interest. This way, you safeguard your finances in Zoetermeer's rental market.