Agency and mediation fee FAQ
Last updated: 2026-07-22
Questions about bemiddelingskosten, courtage and other add-on rental fees.
- Can my landlord force me to use their agent?
- Be careful if you must use a specific agent and also pay that agent’s commission. Ask who engaged the agent and what you receive for any fee.
- Are bemiddelingskosten for tenants legal?
- An agency cannot charge the tenant a fee if it also acts for the landlord on the same listing (BW art. 7:417 lid 4). Reclaim via a written demand letter; escalate to Juridisch Loket if refused.
Source: BW art. 7:417 lid 4 — dual representation ban on charging the tenant when the agency also acts for the landlord. Verified 2026-08-11.
- What is courtage in a Dutch rental?
- Courtage usually means a mediation/agency commission. Clarify who pays it and why before you transfer money.
- Are administration or contract fees OK?
- Some add-on fees are disputed. Ask for a written legal basis for every line item beyond rent and deposit.
- How do I reclaim an improper agency fee?
- An agency cannot charge a fee to the tenant if it is also acting for the landlord on the same listing (dual representation ban, BW art. 7:417 lid 4). If you paid such a fee, request a refund in writing with the invoice and messages attached. If the agency refuses, escalate to Juridisch Loket or another tenants' rights channel and keep a dated record of every step.
Source: BW art. 7:417 lid 4 — dual representation ban on charging the tenant when the agency also acts for the landlord. Verified 2026-08-11.
- Is a viewing fee different from mediation fees?
- Yes, but a fee just to view is also a warning sign. Ask why it is charged and whether it is refundable.
- Who normally pays the agent — tenant or landlord?
- Often the party who engaged the agent. If the agent works for the landlord, tenant-paid commission is frequently improper.
- Can I spot fee clauses with a contract checker?
- Yes. Fee-related clauses are part of the automated issue categories screened by RentalContractCheck.
- Should fees be in the contract or a separate invoice?
- Either way, keep written evidence. Separate invoices without a clear basis deserve the same scrutiny.
- What if the fee was called a “service cost”?
- Labels can be misleading. Ask for an itemised explanation of what service you received.
- Do I pay agency fees for a room rental too?
- The same caution applies to rooms and studios. Question any tenant-paid commission before paying.
- Is deposit the same as an agency fee?
- No. A deposit (borg) is security returned later; an agency fee is a charge for mediation or admin and may be improper.