Termination of a Fixed-Term Tenancy Agreement by the Landlord in Rijswijk

In Rijswijk, a landlord may terminate a fixed-term tenancy agreement, but only under strict conditions. According to Article 7:274 of the Dutch Civil Code (Burgerlijk Wetboek), a notice period of one month must be observed, and a valid reason must exist, such as owner-occupation, renovation, or urgent maintenance of properties in districts like Innen or Oud-Rijswijk. Without a valid reason or with an insufficient notice period, the termination is null and void. The tenant does not need to consent; the agreement terminates automatically. However, in the event of impending eviction, you may lodge a defence with the subdistrict court (kantonrechter) in The Hague, which has jurisdiction over tenancy matters in Rijswijk. Evidence is crucial: the landlord must substantiate the reason, for example, with documents demonstrating housing shortages in the Haaglanden region. An exception applies to housing associations such as Haag Wonen: urgent personal use qualifies as a compelling interest, particularly given the numerous fixed-term agreements in Rijswijk’s new-build projects. Tenant rights include relocation compensation in cases of forced departure due to the landlord’s actions, supported by local initiatives from the Municipality of Rijswijk. In practice, in Rijswijk, legal proceedings at the District Court of The Hague concerning unjustified terminations are increasing due to the tight housing market. Document all correspondence, take photographs of the property, and immediately consult the Legal Counter (Juridisch Loket) in Rijswijk-ZH. Following termination, tenancy protection lapses, but you are entitled to a hearing before the judge. Seek further assistance from the Tenants’ Association Rijswijk (Huurdersbelangenvereniging Rijswijk) for regional advice. (278 words)