Deposit Rules for Room Rentals and Shared Housing in Utrecht

In Utrecht, with its vibrant student life and popular districts such as De Uithof and Kanaleneiland, strict deposit rules apply to room rentals and shared housing to prevent abuse. The deposit may not exceed one month’s rent (Article 7:232 of the Dutch Civil Code), even in the case of multiple tenants in a student house. Each tenant pays separately, but the landlord manages one total sum. Specify in the contract which portion applies per room, particularly in Utrecht’s practices involving flexible rooms. In the event of damage, the landlord is jointly and severally liable for all tenants, but tenants settle this internally among themselves. A requirement is a joint inspection report upon move-in and move-out, signed by all residents. If this is missing, no deductions may be made. Local platforms such as Kamernet and Pararius Utrecht recommend depositing the deposit into an escrow account, as advised by Utrecht student unions. For early departure, common among graduating students from Utrecht University (UU) or HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, the landlord must refund the deposit on a pro-rata basis, minus provable damage. Disputes are handled via the Rent Commission in Utrecht, with a focus on 'normal wear and tear,' such as bicycle tracks in hallways. Example: a stain on the carpet caused by one housemate – only that individual pays, not the entire group. Tenants can take collective action against unreasonable demands through the Utrecht Tenants' Association. The Good Landlordship Act (2023) obliges landlords to be transparent, which is particularly relevant in Utrecht’s tight rental market. Tip: use the model room rental contract with a deposit clause from the Dutch government, adapted to local UU/HU guidelines.