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What is the deposit?#

The deposit is a refundable amount required for certain rental transactions.

The deposit:

• Encourages careful use
• Protects the owner against negligence
• Works alongside Huurmarkt Protection
• Is not paid out automatically to the owner

The deposit amount is shown clearly up front when booking.

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Why does Huurmarkt use a deposit?#

Huurmarkt uses a two-layer protection system:

1. Deposit → discourages negligent or intentional behaviour and absorbs the first damage
2. Huurmarkt Protection (risk pool) → may compensate unforeseen or accidental damage, within the limits of the pool

The deposit influences behaviour. The risk pool is a safety net, not insurance: there is no entitlement to payment.

Together they create trust.

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How is the deposit paid?#

The deposit is paid during the booking process.

Processing depends on the chosen payment method.

Deposit via iDEAL#

When paying via iDEAL:

• The deposit is held by the payment provider
• It's not paid out directly to the owner
• It's released according to the release policy

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Deposit via credit card#

When paying by credit card:

• For short rentals, the deposit may be temporarily reserved
• For longer rentals, the amount may be held

Exact processing may depend on:

• Rental duration
• Payment provider rules
• Platform settings

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When is the deposit released?#

After correct completion of the rental the deposit is released, provided there are no open damage reports or disputes.

Two separate periods apply. We control the first: the deposit is released as soon as the owner confirms the return, and otherwise automatically 72 hours after the last rental day. Releasing means we initiate the refund. The bank controls the second: from that point it takes another five to ten business days before the amount is in your account.

If you rent a stay, the deposit is released within fourteen days of the end of the stay in any case, unless the owner reported damage within the reporting window.

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When can the deposit be retained?#

The deposit may be fully or partially retained for:

• Damage to the item
• Loss or theft
• Late return
• Breach of agreements
• Intentional or negligent behaviour

Damage must be reported within the applicable window.

See the damage policy for full details.

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How is damage assessed?#

When damage is reported:

• Evidence is requested (e.g. photos, communication)
• The situation is reviewed
• Huurmarkt may mediate if needed

While a dispute is active, the deposit can be held.

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What if there is no damage?#

If:

• The item is correctly returned
• No dispute has been opened
• No violation has occurred

Then the deposit is released in full.

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What about car rentals?#

For car rentals:

• A higher deposit may apply
• Additional verification may be required
• The deposit is only released after vehicle and damage check

For traffic fines or violations:

• The deposit may be temporarily held
• Additional handling may apply

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Can the deposit stay on my account?#

In some cases the deposit can:

• Stay on your account
• Be used for future bookings

You'll receive a notification if this applies.

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What if I disagree with a retention?#

If you disagree with a retention:

• Open a dispute via the platform
• Provide evidence
• Wait for review

Huurmarkt assesses the case based on:

• Communication
• Timestamps
• Submitted evidence
• Platform terms

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What if damage exceeds the deposit?#

If the damage is higher than the deposit:

• Additional handling may take place
• Huurmarkt Protection may be drawn on (if it applies to the booking)
• Further review may be needed

Huurmarkt Protection is not insurance and Huurmarkt is not an insurer. Huurmarkt assesses a report and determines the amount of any compensation, within the limits of the pool and the applicable terms. There is no entitlement to payment.

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Important#

• Never arrange a deposit outside the platform.
• Never request or pay a deposit in cash.
• Always communicate via the chat.
• Inspect the item at pickup and return.

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Summary#

The deposit is a temporary security that encourages careful use.

• Paid up front
• Held during the rental
• Released after correct completion
• Can be retained in case of damage or violation

The deposit and Huurmarkt Protection work together to create a safe and reliable platform.