When moving into a new rental property in Leiden, transfer costs often arise, such as key money or cleaning costs. The Tenancy Act (CC 7:231) limits these to reasonable, verifiable expenses. In Leiden, with its tight rental market around the university and city center, this is often seen in properties in neighborhoods such as Professorenbuurt or around the station. Maximum key money: €100, cleaning €250 for heavily soiled property.
Exercising rights: Request a cost overview prior to transfer. If the landlord refuses? Start mediation via Huurteam Leiden, which offers low-threshold assistance for students and young professionals. In case of escalation: Huurcommissie for binding advice, with fast hearings in the region.
Practice: In Leiden, a tenant challenged €450 in costs for an apartment in the Merenwijk; the commission reduced this to €120. Important rule: Costs must be market-conform, no profit for the landlord. Avoid pitfalls by using a checklist: keys, meter readings, condition report and check for mold due to Leiden's humid climate. This way you start stress-free in your new rental property in this vibrant student city.