Deposit Settlement After Lease Termination in Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, with its vibrant port district and diverse rental market, the deposit is a crucial financial security for landlords against possible damage to rental properties in neighbourhoods such as Delfshaven or Kralingen. After termination of the lease, the settlement must take place according to the final inspection protocol, as laid down in Book 7 article 7:237 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). The landlord is obliged to repay the deposit within one month after departure, unless demonstrable damage caused by the tenant has been established. Deductions are only permitted for tenant damage, such as burn marks or broken windows, and not for normal wear and tear or arrears in maintenance by the landlord itself. Tenants in Rotterdam receive a detailed specification of deductions, including invoices and photos from the inspection. In case of disputes, which are common in the city due to high rental pressure, the tenant first sends a reminder and can then initiate proceedings before the district court (kantonrechter) in Rotterdam. Interest on the deposit continues until full payment; landlords must settle this obligatorily. Consider a bank guarantee as an alternative to avoid interest costs, especially with housing associations such as Woonbron or Vestia. The Huurcommissie in Rotterdam handles complaints about unreasonable deductions efficiently. Keep all correspondence, protocols and emails with the landlord. Landlords may not demand a double deposit, not even for room rentals in the city centre. In the event of interim termination, for example due to renovations in the Kop van Zuid, pro rata settlement rules apply. Transparent handling maintains good relations in the Rotterdam rental market and prevents legal escalation at the Rechtbank Rotterdam. Tenants can claim damages for late repayment, including statutory interest. Local tips: consult the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for free advice. (278 words)