Short-stay deposit: tenant appeals in Netherlands

As a tenant in the Netherlands, a short stay can raise questions about the security deposit, payments and how to file an objection or appeal. This text explains in plain language what your rights and obligations are when you pay a deposit for temporary rent, which deadlines you must follow, and which steps you can take if you disagree with the withholding of the deposit. You will read practical tips for gathering evidence, filing a complaint with the Rent Tribunal and when you can go to the cantonal court. The explanation is intended for tenants without a legal background and helps you plan concrete actions to protect your interests.

What the law says

The main rules about rent, deposits and repayment are in Book 7 of the Civil Code. Always consult the legal text for precise articles and definitions.^[1]

What to do if a deposit is withheld

If a landlord does not fully return the deposit (deposit), you can follow these steps to strengthen your position and possibly start a recovery.

• Keep photos, emails and payment receipts (evidence).
• Send a written claim with a clear description and deadline (form).
• Track deadlines and respond within stated timeframes (within days).
• Keep a record of the deposit amount and any deductions (deposit).
• If negotiation fails, consider proceedings with the Rent Tribunal or the cantonal court (court).^[2]

Frequently asked questions

How quickly must the deposit be repaid?

There is no fixed national deadline for all cases; usually you expect clarity and repayment within a few weeks, and you can request payment in writing.

Can the landlord deduct costs for cleaning or repairs?

A landlord may deduct reasonable costs for overdue maintenance or damage beyond normal wear and tear, provided this is well substantiated with evidence.

When should I go to the Rent Tribunal or cantonal court?

First use written negotiation; if that fails you can file a case with the Rent Tribunal for rent and service charge matters or with the cantonal court for other disputes.^[2]

How to (step-by-step)

1. Gather all evidence: photos, messages and payment receipts.
2. Send a registered or written claim with a clear cost breakdown (form).
3. Allow a reasonable response period and record dates of sending (within days).
4. If unresolved, submit a request to the Rent Tribunal or start proceedings in the cantonal court (form).
5. Keep all correspondence and follow up on enforcement or collection (court).

Help and support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) — information and forms
• Wetten.nl — Civil Code Book 7
• Government.nl — information for tenants

1. [1] Wetten.nl — Civil Code Book 7 (Tenancy law)
2. [2] Huurcommissie.nl — Procedures and forms
3. [3] Government.nl — Information for tenants