Key Money and Brokerage Fees: Preventing Double Charging in Westland

In Westland, with its thriving greenhouse horticulture and tight housing market in villages such as Naaldwijk and Monster, real estate agents often charge key money in addition to brokerage fees, leading to double charging. The Brokers Regulation (Real Estate Agents Act) requires transparency in fee structures. As a tenant or buyer in Westland, you do not have to pay extra key money if it is already included in the agent's commission. Recognize double costs: Invoices without clear specification or amounts above €150, typical for rental properties in Westland near horticultural areas. Action plan: Compare invoices with local rate overviews from the Westland municipality and demand recalculation. For rentals: Report to the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate or the Westland Rent Team for free advice. For purchases: File a complaint with the NVM complaints committee or local real estate agents' association. Case study: A family in Poeldijk paid €350 total for a rental property, of which €120 was pure key money. After intervention by the Westland Rent Team and a complaint, they received €140 back. Legal basis: Unjust enrichment (Dutch Civil Code art. 6:203). Document all correspondence digitally, consult the Legal Counter in The Hague for Westland-specific advice, and engage a lawyer for a formal demand letter. This way, you hold real estate agents in Westland accountable and save money on the already high housing prices.