Temporary Rental Agreement for Residential Space in Zoetermeer

Temporary Rental Agreement for Residential Space in Zoetermeer

In Zoetermeer, a temporary rental agreement for residential space is ideal for short-term rentals, such as for commuters or temporary jobs at local companies. This contract runs for a maximum of two years and ends automatically, without notice period. Note: strict legal rules prevent it from becoming an indefinite contract. Residents of Zoetermeer can contact Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for free advice with any questions.

What does a temporary rental agreement entail in Zoetermeer?

This agreement differs from a standard indefinite tenancy by its clear end date. Perfect for expats in the Zoetermeer-The Hague region or students at Leiden University. The tenant uses the property temporarily and leaves at the end without hassle. Abuse is prevented by strict requirements; otherwise, it becomes an indefinite contract.

The law makes the rental market in growth cities like Zoetermeer more flexible, while protecting tenants. In case of violation, the District Court of Zoetermeer intervenes.

Legal rules

The foundation is in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 7, particularly Article 7:271(2) DCC. Since the Act on the Extension of Temporary Rental Agreements of 1 July 2016, the limit is two years. General tenancy rules under Articles 7:201-7:296 DCC also apply, including the notice requirement (Article 7:271(3) DCC): the landlord must notify in writing one month before the end. More info in our article on the landlord's notice requirement. For local disputes: District Court of Zoetermeer.

Requirements for a valid temporary rental in Zoetermeer

The following points are essential:

• In writing and clear: Specify the end date and reason (e.g., 'temporary rental in Zoetermeer due to job at local tech firm').
• Maximum two years: Extension only via new contract, not continuous.
• Concrete reason: Such as temporary stay due to job or studies in the region.
• Automatic end: No automatic extension.

Violation? The court, such as the District Court of Zoetermeer, declares it indefinite (see Supreme Court 23 February 2018, ECLI:NL:HR:2018:271). Check with Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.

Comparison: temporary vs. indefinite in Zoetermeer

Rights and obligations in Zoetermeer

Landlord

• Automatic end, but notice required.
• Keep the property habitable (Art. 7:204 DCC).
• No damage claim if tenant does not leave; contract becomes indefinite.

Tenant

• Use until end date.
• Leave on time, or risk proceedings at District Court of Zoetermeer.
• Deposit refund upon proper departure.

Examples from Zoetermeer

Example 1: Jan, an expat in Seghwaert, rents for 18 months with end date 1 July 2025 and reason 'temporary work'. Notice on 1 June; smooth departure.

Example 2: Marie in Rokkeveen signs for three years: automatically indefinite. Landlord must go to District Court of Zoetermeer for eviction.

Example 3: Pieter in Buytenwegh misses notice and stays: contract indefinite, landlord to court.

End of tenancy and next steps

Tenancy ends automatically; hand over empty and clean. If tenant stays? Indefinite contract. Eviction via District Court of Zoetermeer (Art. 7:268 DCC). New temporary rental OK, max. two years. Municipality of Zoetermeer assists with relocation.

Frequently asked questions