Security Deposit for Early Termination of Rental Agreements in Rotterdam

In the event of early termination of a rental agreement in Rotterdam, the standard regulations under **Article 7:271 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW)** apply. The landlord is obligated to refund the security deposit within one month of termination, minus any outstanding claims such as damages or unpaid rent. In Rotterdam, with its strict rental market and numerous social housing properties managed by corporations like **Woonbron** or **Vestia**, tenants must return the property in a clean and undamaged condition, preferably following a joint inspection. Use the **standard handover report** provided by the Dutch government or the **model from the Municipality of Rotterdam for Tenancy Law**. In cases of breach of contract, deductions from the security deposit are permitted, but only with valid evidence such as photographs or an inspection report. Local **tenant support teams (Huurteams)** in Rotterdam, such as those from **SP Rotterdam** or **Woonbond Rotterdam**, offer free mediation for disputes regarding the security deposit. If mediation proves insufficient, you may escalate the matter to the **subdistrict court (kantonrechter) at the Rotterdam District Court**. Interest on an unrefunded security deposit accrues from the assessment date following the handover. Specific to Rotterdam: Check the **local Housing Ordinance** for temporary rental contracts in the city. Tip: Consider taking out a **tenant insurance policy** through a local broker or **Independer** for additional protection against deposit disputes in this bustling port city.