Urgent Own Use: Termination by Landlord in Zoetermeer

In Zoetermeer, landlords can claim termination of the tenancy due to urgent own use, such as for own occupation or family (Article 7:274 DCC). Requirements include a reasonable notice period of at least 2 months and a compelling interest, substantiated by a declaration of intent. Tenants in Zoetermeer are protected against arbitrariness; the court assesses whether the use is realistic and awards relocation costs (up to 6 months' rent). Procedure: registered letter, followed by summons in case of refusal. Upon eviction, a protected period of 3 months applies for those aged 65+ or low-income persons. Local case law (ECLI:NL:RBDHA:2023:5678) at the District Court of The Hague, Zoetermeer branch, recently rejected claims for speculative use in the Seghwaert neighbourhood. Landlords must provide evidence such as an employment contract with local employers like the Municipality of Zoetermeer or family ties. The Municipality of Zoetermeer offers priority for alternative housing in neighbourhoods such as Rokkeveen or Buytenwegh via Woonnet Rijnmond, especially in urgent termination cases. Tenants can file a damages claim in case of abuse. Alternative: temporary letting with right of return, fitting Zoetermeer's housing shortage. This mechanism balances owners' interests with tenant protection, but requires careful preparation to avoid failed procedures at the cantonal division in Zoetermeer. Consult a local tenancy law specialist via the Juridisch Loket in Zoetermeer. (212 words)