Indefinite-Term Rental Agreement in Zoetermeer - Your Rights and Protection
An indefinite-term rental agreement provides tenants in Zoetermeer with the greatest degree of security and legal protection. This type of agreement has no fixed end date and can only be terminated by the landlord under specific conditions.
What Does an Indefinite-Term Contract Entail?
A rental agreement for an indefinite term means that no end date has been set. The tenancy continues until one of the parties terminates the agreement. This provides tenants in Zoetermeer with optimal rent protection.
Rights and Protection for Tenants
With an indefinite-term rental agreement in Zoetermeer, you benefit from extensive rights:
- Termination protection: The landlord cannot terminate without a valid reason.
- Rent price regulation: Limited annual rent increase (especially in the social housing sector).
- Continuity upon sale: The principle 'purchase does not break rent' applies.
- Takeover upon death: Co-residents can continue the tenancy.
When Can a Landlord Terminate?
In Zoetermeer, a landlord can only terminate based on legally established grounds:
| Reason for Termination | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Inappropriate tenant behavior | Repeated payment arrears, nuisance, or neglect of the property. |
| Necessary own use | The landlord urgently needs the property themselves. |
| Refusal of reasonable proposal | Tenant rejects a reasonable new contract without good reason. |
| Change of designation | The municipality changes the designation of the property. |
| Demolition or renovation works | Major works where occupancy is not possible. |
Steps in Termination by the Landlord
- Written notice: Via registered mail with the reason for termination.
- Notice period: At least 3 months, increasing to 6 months depending on tenancy duration.
- Tenant's consent: Tenant must agree, otherwise the landlord must go to court.
- Court assessment: Only a court can approve the termination.
Notice Periods for Landlords
| Tenancy Period | Notice Period |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | 3 months |
| 1 to 2 years | 4 months |
| 2 to 3 years | 5 months |
| 3 years or more | 6 months |
Terminating as a Tenant in Zoetermeer
As a tenant, you can terminate relatively easily in Zoetermeer:
- Notice period: Between 1 and 3 months.
- No reason required: You do not need to provide a reason.
- Written termination: Preferably by registered mail.
- End of the month: Unless otherwise agreed.
From Temporary to Indefinite Contract
A temporary rental agreement in Zoetermeer automatically becomes an indefinite-term contract if:
- The agreed term has expired and
- The landlord has not terminated in time and
- The tenant continues to live in the property.
The landlord must terminate no later than one month before the end of the fixed term.
Rent Increase in Zoetermeer
With an indefinite-term contract, the landlord may adjust the rent annually:
Social Housing (up to €879.66)
- Maximum permitted percentage (based on inflation).
- Additional increase possible for higher incomes.
Private Sector (above €879.66)
- According to agreements in the contract.
- Often based on inflation (CPI).
What if the Property is Sold?
In Zoetermeer, upon sale, the principle 'purchase does not break rent' applies. This means:
- Your rental agreement remains in force.
- The new owner becomes your landlord.
- Your rights do not change.
- The new owner cannot terminate without reason.
Death of the Tenant
Upon the death of the tenant in Zoetermeer, co-residents can take over the tenancy:
- Partner or spouse: Automatic continuation.
- Co-tenant: Direct continuation.
- Other household members: Submit request to the landlord within 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting in Zoetermeer
Can my landlord terminate due to sales plans?
No, sale is not a legal ground for termination. The new owner takes over your rental agreement.
How long can I stay in my rental property in Zoetermeer?
In principle, indefinitely, as long as you pay the rent and comply with the agreements.
What if the landlord terminates without a valid reason?
You do not have to leave. The landlord must go to court, which will assess the situation.
An indefinite-term rental agreement provides the most housing security in Zoetermeer. Do not let yourself be unduly pressured by a landlord. For legal advice, you can contact the Zoetermeer Legal Advice Office or submit a case to the District Court of The Hague.