In Rijswijk, a vibrant municipality near The Hague with a thriving rental market due to its proximity to offices and residential areas such as In de Bollenstreek, deposits and key money are often confused. Legally, they differ fundamentally: a deposit (Dutch Civil Code, Article 7:220) is a security sum for potential damage or outstanding payments, which must be refunded at the end of the tenancy. Key money, on the other hand, is a one-time payment that does not enjoy the same legal protection. Landlords in Rijswijk may not misuse deposits as a cover for prohibited key money, especially as the Rent Tribunal strictly monitors unfair practices in this region.
Typical issue: A landlord in Rijswijk withholds €250 for 'key costs' from the deposit without any evidence or invoice. Solution: Within 30 days of vacating the property, demand a detailed settlement from the landlord. If there is no response within this period, file a claim with the subdistrict court in The Hague (competent for Rijswijk), including 9% statutory interest on the wrongfully withheld amount.
Recent example: A tenant in the Rijswijk district of Sion won her case in the subdistrict court; the judge ordered the landlord to refund €220 because no invoice for key copies or replacement was provided. Local tip for Rijswijk: Upon vacating, create a detailed key handover protocol, including timestamped photos of all keys and locks. This is crucial in Rijswijk, where rental disputes often escalate due to high housing demand. This protects you against unjustified withholdings and strengthens your legal position before the court or the Rijswijk Tenants’ Support Team (Huurteam Rijswijk).