Many expats in the Netherlands find themselves dealing with termination of their rental contract. Sometimes, the landlord suddenly announces that the property needs to be vacated, or there are even eviction threats. For expats, this is extra stressful: they often do not know Dutch regulations and feel vulnerable.

The rental law attorneys from Arslan Advocaten explain what the rules are for termination and eviction, and how expats can protect themselves.

Can a landlord just terminate a lease?

No. In the Netherlands, a landlord cannot just terminate a lease. Expats also have rent protection.

• Temporary contract: only ends automatically if the landlord confirms this in writing at least 1 month before the end date.

• Indefinite contract: can only be terminated via the court and with a legal termination ground (for example, urgent own use or default).

Common problems for expats

1. Verbal notice
   A landlord says verbally that you have to leave. This is invalid: cancellation must be in writing.

2. Pressure and intimidation
   Some expats are pressured to leave voluntarily, often with threat of loss of the deposit.

3. Wrongful claim to temporary contract
   Landlords pretend a contract stops automatically, while the rules have not been correctly followed.

4. Eviction without court
   Expats sometimes think a landlord can evict them directly. This can only be done through the court.

Real-life examples

• Expat in The Hague: was told he had to leave immediately because the landlord wanted to rent the property to a family member. The judge ruled that this was not a valid reason.

• Expats in Amsterdam: were threatened with eviction if they did not give up the deposit. Thanks to legal assistance, they were able to stay in the property and keep their deposit.

• Student expat in Rotterdam: received a temporary lease that was not properly terminated. As a result, his contract was automatically extended indefinitely.

Your rights during termination or eviction

• A landlord cannot force you to leave voluntarily.

• Only a judge can order an eviction.

• You have the right to a reasonable notice period and written communication.

• In case of wrongful cancellation, you can refuse the termination.

Checklist for expats during rent termination

• Always demand written cancellation or confirmation.

• Check if there is a legal reason for termination.

• Pay attention to the notice period (at least 1 month).

• Consult a rental law attorney in case of eviction threat.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord just put me on the street?
No, only the court can order an eviction.

2. What if my temporary contract has not been cancelled?
Then it is automatically converted to indefinite.

3. Can my landlord withhold my deposit if I do not leave voluntarily?
No, this is illegal. Deposit can only be withheld for damage or arrears in rent.

4. I am an expat and I do not know the rules, do I have fewer rights?
No, expats have the same rights as Dutch tenants.

Conclusion

Expats are often pressured during termination of rent or eviction threat. Remember that a landlord cannot just evict you: only a judge can order an eviction.

The rental law attorneys from Arslan Advocaten assist expats in disputes about cancellation, deposit, and wrongful eviction.