Terug naar Encyclopedie

Eviction and Home Peace: Landlord Rights in Case of Rent Arrears in Zoetermeer

Eviction procedure for rent arrears in Zoetermeer: involvement of bailiff and subdistrict court mandatory. Landlords may not resort to self-help, as this constitutes breach of home peace. Step-by-step guide, local jurisprudence, and pitfalls.

2 min leestijd

Landlord vs. Tenant: Eviction Without Breach of Home Peace in Zoetermeer

In Zoetermeer, with its growing rental market due to the Binckhorst and Stadshart developments, a landlord may evict a tenant in case of rent arrears, but may never breach the home peace themselves. Strict regulations via bailiffs and the subdistrict court prevent vigilantism and protect tenants' rights.

Steps for Eviction in Zoetermeer

  1. Repeated written demands for rent arrears, with reference to local rental teams.
  2. Summons issued by the subdistrict court in The Hague (for Zoetermeer jurisdiction).
  3. Urgent application for an immediate eviction order, often applied in cases of structural non-payment.
  4. Bailiff with police support: the only legal 'entry', frequently utilized in Zoetermeer through the involvement of the Rent Commission.

What Is Absolutely Prohibited

  • Changing locks or forcing entry independently.
  • Placing household goods on the street, even in busy neighborhoods such as Seghwaert.
  • Disconnecting energy, water, or internet – illegal and punishable.

Article 7:231 of the Dutch Civil Code explicitly prohibits landlords from resorting to self-help. Violation constitutes criminal breach of home peace and may lead to civil damage claims. The Rent Commission in the Zoetermeer region may suspend rent in cases of unlawful eviction attempts. In 2023, the District Court of The Hague, which has jurisdiction over Zoetermeer, dismissed 45% of non-payment claims due to procedural errors by landlords, according to local tenants' organizations.

Tip for Zoetermeer tenants: report rental issues to Woonkompas or the Legal Counter Zoetermeer. Landlords: strictly adhere to the procedure. This will help you avoid costly lawsuits and fines in this high-demand rental municipality.

### Arslan & Arslan Advocaten **Arslan & Arslan Advocaten** provides professional legal guidance and support for your legal matters. - Website: [www.arslan.nl](https://arslan.nl) - Email: [info@arslan.nl](mailto:info@arslan.nl) - Free initial consultation