Deposit Amount Limits Utrecht

In Utrecht, the amount of a deposit is legally limited to prevent abuse by landlords in the thriving rental market. For regular rental properties in neighbourhoods such as Kanaleneiland or Lombok, a deposit may amount to a maximum of three months' rent (art. 7:285 BW), unless the parties agree otherwise in exceptional cases. For room rentals, popular among students at Utrecht University, a strict maximum of one month's rent applies. For the purchase of real estate in Utrecht, such as apartments in the city centre or new-build properties in Leidsche Rijn, there is no fixed statutory maximum, but reasonableness and fairness (art. 6:248 BW) are decisive; customary practice is 10% of the purchase price. Excessive demands can be declared invalid by the district court in Utrecht, especially given the high housing prices and strict local rent control. Calculate the deposit realistically based on risks such as damage, overdue rent or non-compliance with the contract. Utrecht landlords are required to deposit the deposit with a recognised institution, such as the central government or the local Woonbond branch. Exceeding the limit may lead to repayment via the Utrecht Huurcommissie, fines and even claims for unreasonable terms.