Unjustified Key Money in Rental Agreements occurs more frequently than you might think. As a tenant, you may sometimes pay an amount for the transfer of keys, but this cannot simply be charged as additional rent or deposit. According to Book 7, Title 4 of the Dutch Civil Code, every payment must be transparent and reasonable. When is key money unjustified? For example, if the landlord has already included key costs in the rent, or if the amount is disproportionately high relative to the actual costs (maximum €100 according to guidelines).
Step 1: Check your rental agreement for specific mentions of key money.
Step 2: Request a cost breakdown from the landlord.
Step 3: File a complaint with the Rent Assessment Committee (Huurcommissie) if the landlord does not respond.
Practical Example: A tenant in Amsterdam paid €250 in key money but received €200 back after the committee intervened, as only €50 constituted actual costs.
Legal Tip: Keep all receipts and correspondence. In case of non-compliance, you can take the matter to the subdistrict court (kantonrechter) to claim repayment plus interest. This way, you effectively protect your rights.