Makelaarskosten (Agent Fees)
Understanding the Dutch rental term "Makelaarskosten" and what it means for tenants in the Netherlands.
Definition
Fees charged by a rental agent (makelaar) for their services in arranging a tenancy. Since 2015 Dutch law prohibits agents from charging tenants for mediation services when the agent also acts on behalf of the landlord, which is the most common arrangement.
When You'll Encounter This
You may encounter makelaarskosten when a rental agent contacts you about a property or when you see a fee mentioned in a listing's fine print.
Example
An agent finds you an apartment and asks you to pay one month's rent as a commission. Because the agent was also hired by the landlord, this charge is illegal and you can refuse or reclaim it.
Practical Tip
If an agent charges you a fee while also representing the landlord, you can reclaim the money up to five years after payment. Document all correspondence and payments as evidence.
Related Terms
The legally binding agreement between a landlord (verhuurder) and a tenant (huurder) that sets out the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including the rent amount, deposit, duration, house rules, and responsibilities.
An independent government body that resolves disputes between tenants and landlords regarding rent prices, service charges, maintenance, and other rental issues.
A refundable sum of money paid by the tenant to the landlord before moving in, intended to cover potential damages or unpaid rent.
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