Key Loss and Deposit for Tenants in the Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, losing a key can cause unexpected costs and practical problems. This article explains clearly what your rights and obligations are regarding key loss, how a deposit can be used for damage or replacement, and which steps you can safely take to avoid unnecessary expenses. You will read practical tips for communicating with the landlord, when to keep evidence, and how to bring a dispute to official bodies such as the Rent Tribunal or the court. The text uses simple language and refers to relevant Dutch sources so you can act quickly and protect your housing rights.

What does the law regulate?

The Civil Code (rental law) states that a deposit is intended as security for compliance with the rental agreement. A landlord may only deduct costs for key replacement if those costs are demonstrable and reasonable and are regulated in the agreement^[1]. In case of dispute you can bring the matter before the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) or the subdistrict court.^[2]

What to do if you lose a key

• Report the loss immediately by e-mail and in writing to the landlord (keep a copy of the message).
• Check your tenancy agreement for clauses about deposit (deposit) and who pays replacement costs.
• Keep evidence: photos of the keyring, date and time of loss, and quotes for replacement or changing the lock.
• Do not arrange unsolicited lock changes; first discuss security and privacy with the landlord.

Compensation and reasonableness

If the landlord wants to charge costs against the deposit, they must specify and justify those costs. Replacement cost for a single key is usually limited; replacing the entire lock or changing systems is more expensive and must be clearly explained. If you disagree, you can request a detailed invoice and, if necessary, an expert quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord deduct costs from the deposit for a lost key?

Yes, but only if the costs are demonstrable and reasonable and relate to replacement or extra security. The landlord must specify which works or parts were charged.^[1]

What if I disagree with the deduction from the deposit?

You can object to the landlord and, if that does not help, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or start a procedure at the subdistrict court. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes about service charges and sometimes other tenancy matters.^[2]

Do I always have to replace the lock if I lose a key?

Not always; replacement is necessary if there is a real security risk. Discuss the best solution with the landlord and ask for written explanation if replacement is performed.

How-To / Step-by-step

1. Search for a spare key immediately and check whether anyone gained access to your home.
2. Report the loss by e-mail and in writing to the landlord and ask for confirmation.
3. Take photos and keep messages, quotes and receipts as evidence for possible costs.
4. Request itemised cost estimates before agreeing to any deduction from the deposit.
5. If there is a dispute, contact the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice.

Key takeaways

• Inform the landlord immediately in writing if you lose a key.
• Always keep evidence and quotes for any costs.
• A landlord may only deduct reasonable and demonstrable costs from the deposit.

Help and support

• Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie): forms and procedures
• Wetten.nl: Civil Code Book 7 (rental law)
• Government.nl: information and contact

1. [1] Wetten.nl
2. [2] Huurcommissie
3. [3] Government.nl