Many expats in the Netherlands have to deal with termination of their rental contract. Sometimes the landlord suddenly announces that the home must be vacated, or even threatens with eviction. For expats, this is extra stressful: they often do not know the Dutch rules and feel vulnerable.
The tenancy law lawyers from Arslan Advocaten explain what the rules are regarding termination and eviction, and how expats can protect themselves.
Can a landlord simply terminate a rental contract?
No. In the Netherlands, a landlord cannot simply terminate a rental contract. Expats also have tenant protection.
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Fixed-term contract: only ends automatically if the landlord confirms this in writing at least 1 month before the end date.
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Indefinite-term contract: can only be terminated through the courts and with a statutory ground for termination (for example, urgent own use or non-payment).
Common problems for expats
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Verbal notice
A landlord tells you verbally that you must leave. This is invalid: termination must be in writing. -
Pressure and intimidation
Some expats are pressured to leave voluntarily, often with the threat of losing their deposit. -
Unjustified reliance on a temporary contract
Landlords act as if a contract ends automatically, even though the rules have not been properly followed. -
Eviction without a court order
Expats sometimes think that a landlord can evict them immediately. This can only be done through the courts.
Examples from practice
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Expat in The Hague:
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: was told he had to leave immediately because the landlord wanted to rent the home to a family member. The judge ruled that this was not a valid reason.Expats in Amsterdam
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: were threatened with eviction if they did not give up their deposit. Thanks to legal assistance they were able to stay in the home and keep their deposit.Student-expat in Rotterdam
: received a temporary tenancy agreement that had not been properly terminated. As a result, his contract was automatically extended for an indefinite period.
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Your rights upon termination or eviction
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A landlord cannot pressure you to leave voluntarily.
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Only a judge can order an eviction.
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You are entitled to a reasonable notice period and written communication.
If the termination is unjustified, you can refuse the termination.
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Checklist for expats when a tenancy ends
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✉️ Always demand a written notice or confirmation.
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📑 Check whether there is a legal basis for termination.
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⏱️ Pay attention to the notice period (at least 1 month).⚖️ Consult a tenancy law
attorney when threatened with eviction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can my landlord just put me out on the street?
No, only a judge can order an eviction.
2. What if my temporary contract has not been terminated?
Then it automatically continues for an indefinite period.
3. May my landlord withhold the security deposit if I do not leave voluntarily?
No, that is unlawful. A security deposit may only be withheld for damage or rent arrears.
4. I am an expat and don’t know the rules, do I have fewer rights?
No, expats have the same rights as Dutch tenants.
Conclusion
Expats are often pressured when a tenancy ends or when facing eviction. Remember that a landlord cannot simply evict you: only a judge can order an eviction.The tenancy law attorneys of Arslan Advocaten
