Renting in the Netherlands: deposit, defects and tenancy disputes
What would you like help with?
Have you received a summons or is eviction threatened? Seek help immediately. A chat conversation does not suspend a deadline.
A dispute about the deposit requires a different approach from a defect in the property or termination of a tenancy. The contract, start date and type of tenancy may make a difference. Therefore, start with the specific letter, settlement statement or report you have a question about.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do if my deposit is not returned?
Request repayment and an explanation of any deductions in writing. Keep your proof of payment, check-out report and photos. This allows you to check exactly what the landlord is claiming.
Reclaiming a depositHow do I deal with defects in my rented home?
Report the defect in writing with a clear description and photos. Keep the report and response. Then check which next step suits your tenancy agreement; the Rent Tribunal handles specific types of tenancy disputes.
Reporting defects and next stepsHow do I check service charges?
Compare the settlement statement with your advance payments and the items charged. Ask for an explanation of unclear amounts and collect the relevant documents before taking the dispute further.
Checking service chargesRenting without a written contract
An oral tenancy can be valid. For residential agreements concluded from 1 July 2023, the landlord must record the agreement in writing. Request confirmation and retain messages and payment evidence. Older agreements have transitional rules; the written information duty is separate.
Calculate the maximum deposit →What can you do now?
- Put the contract, payments and relevant letter or settlement statement side by side.
- Submit your objection or request in writing and keep a copy.
- Check the appropriate route and deadline before starting proceedings or changing payments.
Have this information ready
- Tenancy agreement with annexes and start date.
- Proofs of payment and settlement statements.
- Photos, check-out report and correspondence.
When should you seek help quickly?
Have you received a summons or is eviction threatened? Seek help immediately. A chat conversation does not suspend a deadline.
Official sources and further information
Rent Tribunal — tenancy disputes and procedures ↗General information about Dutch law. The source pages may be in Dutch. This explanation is not an individual legal assessment.
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