When to Go to Court in Rijswijk?
For certain rental disputes in Rijswijk, you cannot go to the Rent Tribunal. For issues such as rent protection, eviction proceedings, or claims for damages, you must initiate a case at the canton judge of the District Court of The Hague. The judge can make definitive decisions and, if necessary, impose coercive measures.
Which Disputes Does the Judge Handle?
| Type of Dispute | Competent Authority | Court Fee (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent Protection | Canton Judge The Hague | €87 - €223 |
| Eviction | Canton Judge The Hague | €87 - €223 |
| Arrears in Rent | Canton Judge The Hague | €87 - €223 |
| Damage Claims | Canton Judge The Hague | €87 - €223 |
| Co-Tenant Status | Canton Judge The Hague | €87 - €223 |
| Renovation or Maintenance | Canton Judge The Hague | €87 - €223 |
Step-by-Step Procedure at the Canton Judge
- Drafting a writ of summons or petition
- Service of the writ of summons by a bailiff
- Payment of the court fee
- Attending the hearing
- Awaiting the judge's judgment
Support for Legal Proceedings
Do I Need a Lawyer?
For cases at the canton judge, a lawyer is not mandatory, but legal assistance can help. Possible resources in Rijswijk are:
- Legal Counter Rijswijk (free advice)
- Legal Expenses Insurance or subsidized assistance
- Lawyer for complex cases
- Tenants' Union for renters (members)
Costs of a Lawsuit
Consider the following costs in a procedure:
- Court Fee: Between €87 and €223, depending on income and case
- Bailiff Costs: For serving the writ of summons
- Lawyer Costs: If you engage legal assistance
- Costs of Proceedings: If you lose, you may have to pay part of the opponent's costs
Subsidized Legal Aid for Court Cases
With a low income, you may be eligible for a legal aid certificate:
- Income lower than €30,000 (single) or €42,400 (cohabiting)
- Limited assets
- Own contribution between €82 and €855
- Application via a lawyer
Can I Litigate Without a Lawyer?
Yes, at the canton judge this is possible. The Legal Counter Rijswijk provides support.
What If I Don't Win the Case?
In that case, you may be required to pay part of the opponent's costs of proceedings, often a fixed amount.
How Long Does a Rental Case Take?
Typically, a case takes 3 to 6 months. In urgent cases (summary proceedings), it can be faster.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent in Rijswijk
What are my rental rights?
As a tenant in Rijswijk, you are entitled to a safe home, protection against unjustified rent increases, and the right to demand maintenance if the property shows defects.
May a 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 keep the deposit in an account and must return it within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How Do I Terminate My Rental Agreement?
You can terminate the rental agreement according to the notice period in your contract, usually in writing and observing the notice period.
What Do I Do If the Property Is Poorly Maintained?
Request the landlord in writing to carry out repairs. If no action is taken, you may carry out repairs yourself and possibly offset the costs against the rent.