Tenants' Rights During Renovation or Reconstruction in Rijswijk

In Rijswijk, where many rental properties in neighbourhoods such as Innen and Oud-Rijswijk are being renovated by housing associations such as Vidomes, the landlord may terminate for temporary eviction due to renovation or reconstruction, but tenants enjoy strong statutory protection. Pursuant to Article 7:220 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), the landlord must offer alternative accommodation in the region, such as temporary housing in Rijswijk-Zuid, or pay substantial compensation. Cost allocation: during the works, the tenant does not pay full rent; often a discount of at least 50% applies. Procedure: the landlord sends written notice with a detailed renovation plan, at least three months before the start. In Rijswijk, organisations such as Huurteam Rijswijk check whether the plan is realistic. The tenant may refuse termination if the renovation proves not to be necessary; the court assesses reasonableness and necessity, taking into account local housing shortage. Example: during renovation of an apartment block in the Plaspoelpolder, tenants receive temporary rental housing nearby or two months' full rent discount plus moving cost compensation. Upon completion, there is a right of return to the original property at the old rent price, unless agreement to an increase. In case of demolition, such as recent projects along the A4, a transition compensation of €10,000 to €15,000 is mandatory. Tenants with a medical indication, often recognised by the Rijswijk Municipal Health Service (GGD), frequently block terminations. Local advisory organisations such as Woonbond Haaglanden and the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk offer free assistance. These rules prevent forced relocation without compensation and align with Rijswijk's focus on affordable housing. Check the renovation plan for feasibility and local subsidies via the municipal website. (248 words)