Prohibited Costs for Renting in Zoetermeer
When renting a property in Zoetermeer, landlords and real estate agents may not charge extra costs at will. Key money is always prohibited and agency fees are only permitted under specific conditions.
Which Costs Are Not Permitted?
| Type of Cost | Permitted? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Key Money | No, never | Payment for access or keys is legally prohibited |
| Security Deposit | Yes, up to 2 months | Refundable after rental period |
| First Month's Rent | Yes | Standard rent payment |
| Administrative Fees | Limited | Only if reasonable |
| Agency Fees Tenant | Usually not | Only upon explicit instruction from tenant |
Rules Regarding Agency Fees
When Are These Costs Permitted?
Agency fees may only be charged to the tenant if:
- The tenant has engaged the real estate agent themselves
- The real estate agent does not also act for the landlord
- A written agreement exists
In most cases, the real estate agent acts for the landlord, so costs may not be charged to the tenant.
Paid Unduly? Claim Your Money Back!
If you have paid key money or agency fees unduly in Zoetermeer, you can demand repayment:
- Send a registered letter with a request for repayment
- Set a deadline of 14 days
- If no response: involve the court (simple procedure)
- Limitation period is 5 years
Security Deposit: What Are the Rules?
In Zoetermeer, a landlord may request a security deposit subject to the following conditions:
- Maximum 2 months' basic rent
- Repayment upon termination of tenancy agreement
- Deduction only for proven damage
- Repayment within a reasonable term
I paid €500 key money in Zoetermeer, can I get it back?
Yes, key money is prohibited throughout the Netherlands, including Zoetermeer. You can reclaim it, even after signing the contract.
May a real estate agent in Zoetermeer charge agency fees of one month's rent?
Only if you approached the agent yourself and they do not act for the landlord. Otherwise, it is not permitted.
May the landlord deduct cleaning costs from my deposit?
Only if the property is much dirtier than at the start of the tenancy. Normal wear and tear may not be grounds for deduction.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rental Costs in Zoetermeer
What is key money and why is it not allowed?
Key money is a payment for receiving keys or access to a rental property. This is always prohibited in the Netherlands, including Zoetermeer, because it is an unreasonable extra cost. You can reclaim paid key money for up to 5 years via a letter or the court.
May a real estate agent charge agency fees when I rent a property?
This is only permitted if you engaged the real estate agent yourself and they do not act for the landlord. Check the situation carefully; these costs are often undue.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord may request?
Maximum two months' basic rent. Upon termination of the tenancy, this amount must be repaid promptly, unless there is clear damage.
What do I do about undue costs in Zoetermeer?
Send a registered letter to the landlord or real estate agent and seek help from the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer if there is no response.
Where can I get legal assistance in Zoetermeer?
The Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer offers free advice on tenancy disputes. For complex cases, go to the District Court of The Hague.