Landlord vs. Tenant: Eviction without Breach of Home Peace in Rijswijk
In Rijswijk, a growing municipality near The Hague, landlords often face rent arrears due to the high demand for affordable housing. Eviction is possible, but committing self-help home peace violation is prohibited. Strict rules via bailiff and district court prevent vigilantism and protect both parties.
Steps for Eviction in Rijswijk
- Repeated written reminders for rent arrears, with reference to local rent teams.
- Summons at the district court in The Hague, competent for Rijswijk cases.
- Short-term proceedings order: immediate eviction order for urgent procedures.
- Bailiff with police support: the only legal 'entry', often coordinated via the Rijswijk neighbourhood teams.
What is Absolutely Not Allowed in Rijswijk
- Replacing locks yourself or forcing entry.
- Putting furniture on the street, even in neighbourhoods like Innen or Oud-Rijswijk.
- Disconnecting energy, water or internet – this leads to fines via the municipality.
Article 7:231 of the Dutch Civil Code explicitly prohibits landlords from self-help. Violation is punishable as breach of home peace, with possible damage claims and criminal prosecution before the criminal division of the district court in The Hague. The Rent Tribunal in the Haaglanden region may suspend rent in case of unlawful evictions. In 2023, the District Court of The Hague, competent for Rijswijk, rejected 45% of misconduct claims due to procedural errors, particularly in busy rental neighbourhoods.
Tip for Rijswijk: tenants can go to Woonkompas Rijswijk for free advice, landlords to the Haaglanden Real Estate Interest Association. Pay on time and follow the law: this way you avoid costly lawsuits in this region.