Recovering Key Money in The Hague: Your Rights and Steps
Recovering key money in The Hague: as a tenant or buyer of a property, you can demand back the amount paid for keys from the landlord or seller. This is possible in cases of non-compliance with agreements, unreasonable amounts, or deception. In The Hague, the Rechtbank Den Haag (Prins Clauslaan 60) handles such cases. Discover here when and how, with local examples and legal basis.
What is key money in The Hague?
Key money is a one-time payment for the transfer of property keys upon rental or purchase. In The Hague, with many rental properties in neighborhoods such as Schilderswijk or Transvaal, it is often charged at €50-€250, e.g., for new cylinders or chip keys. It is not a legal obligation, but a negotiable item. Check your rental agreement or deed of sale.
Legal basis for recovery
No specific law for key money, but relevant rules from the Dutch Civil Code (BW) apply throughout the Netherlands, including The Hague:
- Rental law (BW Book 7, Title 4): Protects tenants against unreasonable demands. E.g., if the landlord fails to deliver keys after payment.
- Unfair terms (BW 6:233): Invalid clauses in agreements.
- Unfair commercial practices (BW 6:193a et seq.): Deception regarding mandatory payment.
- Sale agreements (BW 7:1): Ancillary costs must be transparent.
For The Hague-specific matters: consult Juridisch Loket Den Haag, Lutherse Burgwal 10 for free intake.
When to recover key money in The Hague?
Common situations in the region:
1. No keys after payment
You paid €100, but keys do not arrive (e.g., due to administrative error by a housing corporation such as Haag Wonen). Send a registered letter with penalty clause. No response? Summons at Rechtbank Den Haag.
- Landlord forgets transfer.
- Keys defective and not replaced.
2. Unreasonably high amount
In The Hague often €150+ demanded, while costs are €30 (standard lock). Recover the excess. Example: Paid €200, actual costs €60? Claim €140 back with invoices.
- Not matching actual expenses.
- Standard rate without customization.
3. Deception by landlord/seller
"Key money is mandatory" while optional. Basis: mistake (BW 6:228). In The Hague successful at Huurcommissie or district court judge.
- Incorrect information about necessity.
- Incomplete disclosure.
4. Keys not used or unnecessary
In case of interim termination or if you install your own locks. Full refund possible within a reasonable period.
Step-by-step plan for The Hague
- Written demand: Send registered letter with evidence (invoice, contract).
- Free advice: Juridisch Loket Den Haag (Lutherse Burgwal 10, tel. 0900-8020).
- Huurcommissie (for rentals): Online application.
- Rechtbank Den Haag: District court judge (Prins Clauslaan 60). Procedure approx. €85 court fee; high chance of success for monetary claims.
- Court bailiff: For collection in case of non-payment.
Practical example from The Hague
Ms. Jansen rented in the Binckhorst: €180 key money paid, keys received 2 weeks later. After demand, €150 recovered. Without action: judgment from Rechtbank Den Haag.
Tips & warnings
- Keep all receipts and correspondence.
- Negotiate at intake: often settlement.
- Avoid cash payment without receipt.
Taking action pays off: 70% success with the right approach. Contact Juridisch Loket Den Haag today!