Subletting and Urgent Termination of Temporary Contracts in

Subletting, regulated under Article 7:232 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), is popular in Zoetermeer due to the growing demand for flexible housing in districts such as Rokkeveen and Seghwaert. This short-term rental type differs from regular tenancy agreements, but urgent termination applies analogously, with faster procedures and more limited tenant protection. Evidence is crucial, such as WhatsApp messages or video recordings. Subtenants in Zoetermeer apartments can terminate their agreements in cases of serious nuisance caused by the main tenant, for example, illegal occupancy in a temporarily rented holiday home near Zoetermeer Stadium. Landlords may terminate for breach of contract, provided it is promptly reported to the municipality. In the case of furnished rentals with temporary contracts in Zoetermeer’s new-build properties, the agreement ends automatically, but an urgent reason accelerates the process. The court applies stricter scrutiny due to the temporary nature; examples include party-related disturbances in a rental property on Oostwaalweg or damage caused by noisy partygoers in a Buytenwegh property. The procedure involves direct termination, followed by referral to the subdistrict court in Zoetermeer if necessary. Tenants enjoy less housing protection, and costs are lower due to expedited case handling. In the case of ECLI:NL:RBROT:2023:111, a subletting agreement in the region was dissolved due to threats—locally relevant for Zoetermeer property owners. Unlike main tenancy agreements, there is no involvement of the Rent Tribunal; the Dutch Civil Code applies directly. Advice for Zoetermeer landlords: explicitly regulate rental contracts with local clauses and protect your interests through security deposits. Subletting offers flexibility for expats in Zoetermeer’s tech parks but be mindful of misuse risks in accordance with local enforcement.