In Zoetermeer, the landlord is legally required to pay interest on your deposit from the first day of the tenancy. Article 7:204 BW regulates this: the statutory interest, currently around 2-6% per year depending on the period. This interest continues until full repayment of the deposit. As a tenant in Zoetermeer, request an annual interest statement, otherwise your claim will become time-barred. If the landlord does not pay? Send a demand letter and carefully retain all your correspondence.
Many landlords in Zoetermeer, such as housing associations like Vidomes or private real estate agents in neighbourhoods like Buytenwegh or Seghwaert, deposit the deposit into a blocked account with foundations such as Woonborg or Stichting Huurdersbelangen Zoetermeer. Check this immediately upon entering into your tenancy agreement via the Huurteam Zoetermeer or the municipal website. In the area around the Zoetermeerse Markt and the Stadshart, many starters and families rent; take advantage of this statutory protection.
In case of default in Zoetermeer: first approach the Huurcommissie (counter in The Hague, but accessible for Zoetermeer matters). If that fails, then to the cantonal court in Gouda or The Hague. Local tips: consult the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for free advice and prevent unnecessary disputes in this green city.