A temporary rental contract in the Netherlands only ends if the landlord tells you in writing when the lease ends, no earlier than three months and no later than one month before the end date (Article 7:271 Dutch Civil Code). If that did not happen, or not on time, the lease continues for an indefinite period. Since 1 July 2024 a temporary contract is only allowed with designated groups; being an expat is not one of them. The notice check shows where you stand.
This check gives a first indication based on Article 7:271 Dutch Civil Code (checked on 23 September 2026). Whether your contract may really be temporary also depends on its content; have it reviewed if in doubt.
How the check works
- Contract on or after 1 July 2024: temporary only for designated groups; otherwise the lease is open-ended.
- Contract before 1 July 2024: the old regime applies, at most two years (self-contained) or five years (a room).
- Notification window: three months to one month before the end date, in writing. Too early does not count; too late or not at all means an open-ended lease.
Source: Article 7:271 Dutch Civil Code (checked on 23 September 2026). Read more: temporary contracts for expats, deposit check and tenancy law. Nederlands: aanzegcheck.
Frequently asked questions
When must a landlord notify the end of a temporary lease?
In writing, no earlier than three months and no later than one month before the end date (Article 7:271 Dutch Civil Code).
What happens if the notification is late?
The lease continues for an indefinite period. The landlord can then only terminate it on a statutory ground, and without your consent a court decides.
Can a landlord still offer a temporary contract after 1 July 2024?
Only to designated groups, such as students, and for at most two years. Otherwise the contract counts as an open-ended lease. Expats are not a designated group.
