Termination of Tenancy for Urgent Cause in Zoetermeer
Termination of tenancy due to an urgent cause is a legal procedure whereby a tenant or landlord in Zoetermeer can terminate the tenancy agreement in serious situations that are no longer tolerable. This termination differs from a standard notice and requires a formal approach with a concrete reason. In this article for Zoetermeer tenants and landlords, we explain what an urgent cause is, the legal framework and practical steps.
What constitutes an urgent cause for termination of tenancy in Zoetermeer?
An urgent cause concerns a situation so serious that continuation of the tenancy relationship is unreasonable. Think of nuisance, defects in the property or significant changes in circumstances. The law requires prompt notification, so that the other party can respond or improve. In Zoetermeer, such cases often occur in apartment complexes with neighbor nuisance.
This provision falls under Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), specifically Article 7:279 paragraph 1. It stipulates that termination of tenancy is possible in the event of an urgent cause, provided it is demonstrable and differs from regular notice.
Legal basis: Article 7:279 BW in Zoetermeer context
The core law is Article 7:279 Dutch Civil Code, which states:
The tenant or landlord may dissolve the tenancy agreement if an urgent cause necessitates it.
Article 7:279 paragraph 2 provides examples, relevant for Zoetermeer:
- Neighbor nuisance such as nighttime noise, intimidation or damage in flats.
- Breach of the purpose clause (see our article on Housing Purpose Zoetermeer), e.g. commercial use without permit.
- Health hazards due to damp spots, outdated insulation or hygiene problems.
- Rent arrears or bankruptcy of the tenant.
The Rechtbank Den Haag (district Zoetermeer) rules on the urgent cause. Evidence such as reports to the municipality of Zoetermeer or the Tenants' Team is crucial.
Practical examples from Zoetermeer
Concrete cases from the region:
1. Neighbor nuisance in Zoetermeer flats
In case of persistent noise or aggression by neighbors, and if the landlord does not intervene, the tenant can terminate. First contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
2. Incorrect use of property
Landlords in Zoetermeer can intervene in case of Airbnb misuse or storage of goods, which violates the zoning plan rules.
3. Health risks in older Zoetermeer properties
Mold due to poor ventilation or asbestos in flats from the 1970s justifies termination. Report to the municipality of Zoetermeer.
4. Rent arrears
In case of prolonged non-payment, the landlord can proceed to the Rechtbank Den Haag.
Rights and obligations in Zoetermeer
Parties have specific rights:
Tenant rights
- Safe living environment: Terminate tenancy in unlivable conditions.
- Nuisance protection: Against landlord inaction.
- Financial options: In case of unaffordability.
Landlord rights
- Enforcement of tenancy conditions.
- Property protection in case of misuse.
Procedure in Zoetermeer
Send a registered letter with evidence. In case of dispute: Rechtbank Den Haag or free advice at Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer (Stationsplein 29). Local tenants' teams assist with mediation.
Advice for Zoetermeer
Document everything and seek help. Zoetermeer's Tenants' Team or Woonbond provides support.