Rental Deposit in Rijswijk: Withholding and Refund upon Termination

In Rijswijk, a vibrant municipality near The Hague, the deposit protects the landlord against damage in rental properties. When may this be withheld and how do you claim it back according to local practice?

Rules regarding deposits in Rijswijk

According to Article 7:266 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), the deposit may amount to a maximum of two months' rent. Landlords in Rijswijk must deposit this into a blocked account at a bank. At the end of the tenancy period, often after handing in the keys to the local letting agent, repayment must follow within one month. In Rijswijk, tenants check compliance via the municipality, especially in neighbourhoods such as Innen or Oud-Rijswijk.

Grounds for withholding specific to Rijswijk

Withholding is only permitted for demonstrable damage, outstanding rent or utility costs. Standard cleaning does not qualify, unless explicitly stated in the contract – a common point of contention with Rijswijk housing associations such as Vidomes. In case of dispute: involve the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) or proceed to the district court (kantonrechter) in The Hague, which has jurisdiction for Rijswijk. Local tenant teams offer free advice.

Step-by-step plan for tenants in Rijswijk

Prepare a joint handover statement, take photos of the property and demand the deposit back in writing by registered letter. In case of refusal: initiate proceedings via the Rent Tribunal or have a summons served. Unjustified withholding often leads to interest, procedural costs and compensation for the tenant. In Rijswijk, tenants have recently won cases regarding unproven cleaning costs. Consult the Juridisch Loket in the Plaspoelpolder for assistance. (287 words)