What Does Tenant Protection Mean?
Tenant protection ensures that tenants in Zoetermeer cannot be evicted from their home without a valid reason. A landlord can only terminate the tenancy on statutory grounds and must go to court if the tenant does not agree to the termination. This right provides essential security to tenants in the region.
Who Falls Under Tenant Protection?
| Type of Housing | Tenant Protection? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Independent dwelling | Full | Own entrance, kitchen and sanitary facilities |
| Non-independent dwelling (room) | Partial | Protection depending on circumstances |
| Temporary contract (< 2 years) | Limited | No rights after contract expires |
| Student housing | Limited | First 9 months less protection |
| Recreational property | No | Intended for temporary use |
What Does Tenant Protection Include?
- Protection against termination: Landlord cannot terminate the tenancy arbitrarily
- Protection against eviction: Only a court can approve eviction
- Rent price control: Restrictions on rent increases (social housing)
- Right to continuation: In the event of the tenant's death
Grounds for Termination by Landlord
Termination Possible If:
- Poor tenant behaviour (e.g. payment arrears or nuisance)
- Necessary own use by landlord
- Refusal of a reasonable new lease proposal
- Implementation of a zoning plan
When No Tenant Protection?
- Temporary use (such as holiday rental)
- Rent linked to another agreement (e.g. employment)
- Student housing in the first 9 months
- Specific housing for certain groups
Steps in Case of Termination by Landlord
- Stay calm, you are protected by law
- Respond in writing to the termination within 6 weeks
- Do not agree if you want to continue living there
- Seek legal assistance, for example via Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer
- Continue paying rent to preserve your rights
Can I Waive Tenant Protection?
No, waiving tenant protection is legally invalid, even if stated in a contract.
Do I Have Rights with a Temporary Lease?
Yes during the contract period, but for contracts shorter than 2 years, the tenancy ends automatically upon expiry.
What If I Have Lived in the Property for a Long Time?
Long-term occupancy strengthens your position. Courts take this into account in their decision in a dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tenant Protection in Zoetermeer
What are my rights as a tenant in Zoetermeer?
As a tenant, you have the right to safe housing, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the option to take action if the property has defects.
Can my landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?
No, rent increases must comply with 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 a separate account and repay it within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How Do I Terminate My Tenancy?
Termination must be done in writing, observing the notice period in your contract, usually one month.
What If My Property Is in Poor Condition?
Request the landlord in writing to carry out repairs. If this does not happen, you can take action yourself and offset costs against the rent after consultation.