Deposit versus key money in Utrecht: distinction and your rights

In Utrecht, deposit and key money are often confused, but they differ fundamentally in law according to the Civil Code (CC 7:220). Deposit is a security sum for possible damage or outstanding payments, which must be refunded after the end of the tenancy. Key money, on the other hand, is a one-time payment that does not fall under the same statutory protection. Landlords in the Utrecht rental market may not misuse deposit as a cover for prohibited key money, especially in the strictly regulated student and young professionals market. Typical problem in Utrecht: A landlord deducts €250 'key costs' from the deposit without any proof or invoice. Solution: Demand a detailed settlement within 30 days after departure. No response? Contact the Rent Team Utrecht for free advice or initiate a claim at the Utrecht district court with 9% statutory interest plus court costs. Example: A tenant in the Lombok neighbourhood (Utrecht) recently won her case at the District Court of Midden-Nederland; the judge ordered the landlord to repay €220 because no invoice for key copies or replacement was provided. Local tip: At departure, create a detailed key handover protocol with timestamp photos and have it signed by the landlord. In Utrecht, residents' organisations such as Woonbond Utrecht recommend combining this with an end inspection report. This protects you against unjust deductions and strengthens your position with the local court.