Preventing double key money charges by real estate agents. Transparency rules, complaint procedures, and a successful Utrecht case study.
Real estate agents sometimes charge key money in addition to mediator fees, which can result in double charging. The Real Estate Agents Regulation (Dutch Real Estate Brokerage Act) mandates transparency in fee structures. As a tenant or buyer, you should not pay additional key money if the agent’s commission already covers this.
Identify double charges: Invoices without itemization or amounts exceeding €150. Action plan: Compare invoices and demand a recalculation. For rentals: Report to the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate. For purchases: File a complaint with the NVM Complaints Committee.
Case study: A family in Utrecht paid a total of €300, of which €100 was purely key money. After filing a complaint, they received €120 back. Legal basis: Unjust enrichment (Dutch Civil Code, Art. 6:203). Document everything digitally and engage a lawyer for a formal demand letter. This ensures real estate agents are held accountable and helps you save money.