Tenant Rights Regarding Transfer Costs Such as Key Money and Cleaning Fees. Maximum Amounts, Mediation, and an Eindhoven Case.
When moving to a new rental property, transfer costs often arise, such as key money or cleaning fees. The Dutch Tenancy Law (Dutch Civil Code, Book 7, Article 231) limits these to reasonable and verifiable expenses. Maximum key money: €100; cleaning costs: €250 for heavily soiled properties.
Exercising Your Rights:
Request a cost overview from the landlord prior to the transfer. If the landlord refuses, initiate mediation via the Huurteam (Tenant Support Team). In case of escalation, the Huurcommissie (Rent Commission) can provide a binding decision.
Practical Case:
In Eindhoven, a tenant contested €400 in costs; the Rent Commission reduced this to €150. Key rule: Costs must be market-conform and should not generate profit for the landlord. Avoid pitfalls by using a checklist: keys, meter readings, and property condition report. This ensures a stress-free start in your new rental home.