Deposit and Lost Keys: Tenant Rights in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, lost keys can be unexpected and costly. You may wonder who is responsible for replacing locks, whether the landlord may use the deposit, and what steps to take to avoid unfair charges. This article explains in plain language your rights and obligations when keys are lost or stolen, how to limit damage and costs, which documents are useful, and when you can involve the Rent Tribunal^[2] or the legal aid desk. We provide practical steps for notifying the landlord, obtaining quotes for replacement, and tips for reclaiming your deposit so you are better prepared.

What does lost keys mean for your deposit?

Lost keys can affect the deposit (security sum) if there are costs for replacing locks or changing the locking system. Under the Civil Code Book 7 (tenancy law), costs may only be deducted if they are reasonable and demonstrable and proportionate to the damage^[1]. Therefore, always ask for an itemised bill of costs and keep quotes and payment receipts.

Who pays for replacement and damage?

• If you lost the keys due to your own fault, reasonable replacement costs may be deducted from the deposit (deposit).
• In case of theft, it is wise to file a police report; sometimes insurance or the landlord covers only verifiable costs (deposit).
• The landlord must not make an unspecified flat deduction from the deposit; always request an itemised explanation and proof of costs (deposit).

What can you do: steps for tenants

1. Report the loss in writing to the landlord and note the date of notification (file).
2. Request at least one or two quotes for replacing locks and ask for a breakdown of the work (repair).
3. Keep evidence: emails, photos of damage, receipts and correspondence with the landlord (evidence).
4. Only pay reasonable costs and ask for reimbursement if the landlord wrongly deducts amounts from the deposit (deposit).
5. If necessary, involve the Rent Tribunal or bring the case to the subdistrict court; first try to resolve the matter in writing (court).

Frequently asked questions

Can the landlord use my deposit to cover costs for lost keys?

The landlord may deduct reasonable and demonstrable costs if you are liable, but unreasonable or unspecified deductions can be challenged. Keep notifications and quotes as evidence.

What should I do if my keys are stolen?

File a police report, notify the landlord immediately and request quotes for replacement. Keep all documents and communication for your file.

How can I get my deposit back if the landlord deducted costs?

Request an itemised calculation of deductions, try to resolve the issue by agreement and, if necessary, contact the Rent Tribunal [2] or the subdistrict court.

How-To

1. Report the loss in writing to the landlord and note the date and time (file).
2. Obtain and compare quotes for lock replacement (repair).
3. Save photos, emails and receipts as evidence for any dispute (evidence).
4. Only accept and pay reasonable, itemised costs; discuss them with the landlord (deposit).
5. If needed, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or start proceedings in the subdistrict court (court).

Key takeaways

• Always keep written notifications and quotes as evidence.
• Only reasonable and itemised costs may be deducted from your deposit.
• The Rent Tribunal provides an accessible route for tenancy disputes.

Help and support

• Rent Tribunal — independent solution for tenancy disputes
• Civil Code Book 7 (Tenancy law) — wetten.overheid.nl
• Government information on housing — government.nl

1. [1] Civil Code Book 7 — wetten.overheid.nl
2. [2] Rent Tribunal — huurcommissie.nl
3. [3] Government: housing and renting — government.nl