In Tilburg, with its vibrant student life around Tilburg University and Fontys, strict deposit rules apply to room rental and shared living to prevent abuse. The deposit may not exceed one month's rent (art. 7:232 CC), also in popular neighborhoods such as Westerlichting or around Korvel. Each tenant pays separately, but the landlord manages one total sum. Specify in the contract which portion applies per room, especially in large properties in the Het Zand neighborhood.
In case of damage, the landlord holds all tenants jointly and severally liable, but internally, housemates can settle this among themselves. Essential: a joint inspection report upon moving in and out, with signatures from everyone. Without this, the landlord may not make any deductions. Local platforms such as Kamernet and Pararius, widely used by Tilburg students, recommend depositing the deposit into an escrow account via the municipality or banks such as Rabobank Tilburg.
Upon early departure, the landlord must repay pro rata, minus proven damage. Disputes are resolved via the Rent Tribunal in North Brabant, taking into account 'normal wear and tear' in student rooms. Example: a stain on the carpet caused by one housemate in a Korvel property – only that person pays, not the entire group. Tenants can act collectively against unreasonable demands, supported by the Municipality of Tilburg's rent team. The Good Landlordship Act (2023) requires landlords to be transparent, including in the area around the Spoorzone project. Tip: use the model room rental contract with deposit clause from the central government, which can be adapted via the Juridisch Loket Tilburg. (248 words)