Many expats pay an agency fee of one month's rent, or "contract costs", when they rent through an agent. In many cases that is not allowed.
The rule
An agent who works for the landlord, for example by advertising the home and selecting tenants, may not also charge the tenant. Charging both sides is not allowed under Dutch law. This also applies to fees with other names, such as contract costs or administration costs.
When can an agent charge you?
Only when you hired the agent yourself to search for a home on your behalf, and the agent does not also work for the landlord on that home.
Getting the money back
- Ask the agent in writing to refund the fee, and explain that they worked for the landlord.
- Keep the advertisement, invoices and emails as proof.
- If the agent refuses, you can go to court. Tenants have successfully reclaimed fees years after paying them.
Paid an agency fee? Then check your rent as well. Homes let through agents are often rented above the legal maximum. Check your rent for free.