Withholding the Deposit in Rotterdam: When Is a Landlord Allowed to Do This?

In Rotterdam, a landlord may not withhold the deposit arbitrarily. According to Article 7:220 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), there must be demonstrable damage to your property in districts such as Delfshaven or Kralingen, or outstanding payments. Damage must be reported within a reasonable period, supported by invoices and receipts from local Rotterdam contractors. In case of dispute, you can engage the Rent Commission Rotterdam, which specifically advises on rental disputes in the port city. Upon check-in, create a detailed handover report with photographs, particularly for characteristic Rotterdam properties with port features. If the landlord withholds the deposit unjustly, you are entitled to statutory interest from the end date of the lease. If necessary, proceed via the subdistrict court in Rotterdam, which is familiar with local rental market regulations. Avoid verbal agreements; document everything in writing, also due to the strict Rotterdam rental policies concerning student and port housing. Contact the Legal Counter Rotterdam for free advice.