Dispute Resolution at Final Inspection of Rental Property in Delft

At the final inspection of a rental property in Delft, tenant and landlord may clash over the condition of the property, for example in characteristic buildings in the historic city center such as around the Markt or the Bagijnhof. Discussions often revolve around damage versus normal wear and tear, with impact on the deposit. According to Civil Code Book 7, Title 3, the landlord must refund the deposit within a reasonable period, unless deduction is justified. In Delft, where many student accommodations are via DUWO or private landlords, if parties cannot reach agreement? Then send a notice of default and involve the subdistrict court at the The Hague District Court (Delft location). The Rent Tribunal offers low-threshold mediation, ideal for local rental disputes. Document the inspection protocol meticulously with photos, especially for typical Delft elements such as canal houses or old floors. The judge assesses the evidence: normal wear and tear from daily use, such as paint fading in a student house on Phoenixstraat, falls under the landlord's responsibility. Intentional damage or negligence, for example at parties in the Poptahof neighborhood, is charged to the tenant. Prevent escalation with an independent inspector from the region, recognized by the Delft Tenants' Interest Association. Deadlines are crucial: landlord has a maximum of three months after termination for claims. Success depends on the causal link between damage and tenant behavior, supported by local case law from the Delft subdistrict court. (248 words)