What Does Tenant Protection Mean?
Tenant protection guarantees that tenants in Rijswijk cannot be evicted from their home without reason. A landlord may only terminate the tenancy on statutory grounds and must go to court if the tenant does not agree. This right provides essential security to tenants in the region.
Who is Entitled to Tenant Protection?
| Type of Housing | Tenant Protection? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Independent dwelling | Full | Own entrance, kitchen and sanitary facilities |
| Non-independent dwelling (room) | Partial | Protection depending on circumstances |
| Temporary contract (< 2 years) | Limited | No rights after contract expires |
| Student housing | Limited | First 9 months less protection |
| Holiday home | None | For recreational use |
What Does Tenant Protection Include?
- Protection against termination: Landlord cannot terminate without reason
- Protection against eviction: Only a court order can enforce eviction
- Rent control: Restrictions on rent increases (social housing)
- Right to continuation: In case of the tenant's death
Statutory Grounds for Termination
Termination Possible If:
- Poor tenant conduct (e.g. non-payment, causing nuisance)
- Necessary own use by landlord
- Refusal of a reasonable new lease proposal
- Implementation of a zoning plan
When No Tenant Protection?
- Short-term use (e.g. holiday homes)
- Rent linked to another agreement (such as employment)
- Student housing in the first 9 months
- Specific housing for certain groups
Steps in Case of Termination by Landlord
- Stay calm, you are protected by law
- Respond in writing within 6 weeks
- Do not agree if you want to stay
- Seek legal assistance, such as the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk
- Continue paying rent to preserve your rights
Can I Waive Tenant Protection?
No, waiving tenant protection is legally invalid, even if you have signed for it.
Do I Have Rights with a Temporary Lease?
Yes during the contract period, but for contracts shorter than 2 years, the tenancy ends automatically upon expiry.
Does Long-term Tenancy Make a Difference?
Yes, the longer you have lived in the property, the stronger your position in any potential court case. The court takes this into account.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tenant Protection in Rijswijk
What are my rights as a tenant in Rijswijk?
As a tenant, you have the right to safe housing, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and the ability to demand maintenance if the property shows defects.
Can my landlord just increase the rent?
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 keep the deposit in an account and repay it within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate the tenancy observing the notice period in your contract. This generally must be done in writing.
What if my property is in poor condition?
Ask the landlord in writing to carry out repairs. If this does not happen within a reasonable time, you can take action yourself and offset costs against the rent.