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Willem
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This is not the approach you wanted, but it's one that hasn't been mentioned yet:

Send a claim, then a notice of default, then a debt collector

In the Netherlands, if someone owes you a debt you can send them a registered letter with a claim. If they don't pay within some reasonable (or legally defined, usually 2-4 week) period you specify in the letter, you can send them a second letter with a notice of default and a shorter deadline (e.g. 3 to 7 days). If they don't pay then, you can contact a debt collection agency to handle the rest, this usually costs a percentage or a fixed sum off the debt.

I would assume even the first letter would jolt your ex-roommate into action, even if just to protest your claim; at least you'll be in touch then.

If not you have a way to proceed. I would add a line item for the cost of the furniture and add in the letter that that part of the debt can be paid in nature (= with the furniture).

I'm sorry I don't have a less confrontational approach at hand. I hope you get your situation fixed.

Willem
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