Terminating the Tenancy as a Tenant
As a tenant in Rijswijk, you can generally terminate your tenancy agreement without much difficulty. Unlike the landlord, you do not need to provide a legal reason. However, it is important to follow the correct notice period and procedure.
Notice Periods in Rijswijk
| Contract Type | Notice Period | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Indefinite Term | Often 1 month | Check your tenancy agreement |
| Fixed Term (< 2 years) | Not possible | Ends automatically |
| Fixed Term (2+ years) | 1 month before expiry | Or as otherwise agreed |
Steps for Termination
- Written Notice: Send a registered letter or email with acknowledgment of receipt
- Signature: All tenants on the contract must sign
- Clarity: Clearly state that you are terminating and from which date
- On Time: Ensure the termination is received before the first of the month
Sample Termination Letter
Dear Landlord,
With this letter, I terminate the tenancy for the property at [address] in Rijswijk, effective from [date]. I will return the keys on [date]. Please return the deposit of €[amount] to [IBAN].
Yours sincerely,
[Name and signature]
Important Considerations
- Request written confirmation of receipt of the termination
- Schedule a final inspection with the landlord
- Arrange a forwarding address for your mail in time
- Terminate or transfer gas, water, and electricity
- Return all keys to the landlord
Early Termination for Fixed-Term Contracts
For a fixed-term tenancy agreement, early termination is usually not possible, unless:
- Your contract contains a clause for early termination
- The landlord agrees to the termination
- You find a new tenant (depending on the circumstances)
Can I cancel my termination?
This is only possible if the landlord agrees. A termination is normally binding.
Does my co-tenant also need to sign?
Yes, if your partner or housemate is a co-tenant, they must also sign the termination. A unilateral termination is not valid.
What if I terminate too late?
Then the end date is shifted to the following month and you remain liable for rent until that time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Terminating Tenancy in Rijswijk
What are my rights as a tenant in Rijswijk?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe home, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and you can demand that defects be remedied if the property is uninhabitable.
Can my landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?
No, rent increases are subject to statutory rules. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the permitted limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The landlord must refund the deposit within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, provided no damage has been found.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Rijswijk?
You do this in writing, observing the notice period in your contract. Contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for advice.
What to do if the property is in poor condition?
Request the landlord in writing to carry out repairs. If this does not happen, you can take action yourself and offset costs against the rent after consultation.