Avoiding Nuisance as a Tenant
As a tenant in Zoetermeer, you are obliged not to cause hindrance to your neighbors or the surroundings. This is a fundamental rule of good tenancy. In the event of serious or persistent nuisance, your tenancy agreement may be terminated.
Types of Nuisance
| Type of Nuisance | Examples | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Loud music, shouting, DIY work | Moderate to severe |
| Odor nuisance | Garbage, animals, narcotics | Severe |
| Intimidation | Aggressive behavior, threats | Very severe |
| Unlawful practices | Drug sales, cannabis cultivation | Very severe |
| Pollution | Waste accumulation, clutter | Moderate to severe |
What is Permitted?
Normal living behavior is accepted:
- DIY work during the day (between 8:00 and 19:00)
- A one-time party (inform neighbors in advance)
- Keeping pets (provided not prohibited in the agreement)
- Children playing during the day
Consequences of Nuisance
Step-by-Step Plan in Case of Nuisance
- Warning: Written notification from the landlord
- Consultation: Discussion for mediation
- Behavioral instruction: Formal guideline with conditions
- Final warning: Threat of eviction
- Legal steps: Request for termination of tenancy via the court
- Eviction: Forced departure from the property
Responsibility for Others
As a tenant, you are liable for:
- Actions of household members
- Behavior of visitors
- Nuisance caused by pets
What if You Are Accused?
In the event of a complaint about nuisance:
- Take the accusation seriously
- Enter into dialogue with the complaining party
- Respond in writing to notifications from the landlord
- Request mediation if consultation fails
- Seek legal assistance in case of threatened eviction
Can I lose my home due to nuisance?
Yes, in the case of persistent or serious nuisance, the landlord can demand dissolution of the tenancy through the court in The Hague (district). The judge weighs all interests.
What if neighbors file unfounded complaints?
Document everything and gather evidence of your normal behavior. Request the landlord to conduct an independent investigation.
May the landlord install cameras against nuisance?
This is only permitted under strict privacy conditions and not without consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my tenant rights in Zoetermeer?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe, decent home, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and the ability to take action if the property is uninhabitable.
Can the landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?
No, rent increases follow strict legislation. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the statutory limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be kept by the landlord in an account and returned within 30 days after termination of the tenancy, unless damage has been identified.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate the tenancy by observing the notice period in your contract. This usually needs to be done in writing.
What to do with a poorly maintained property?
Request the landlord in writing to carry out repairs. If this does not happen within a reasonable time, you can have repairs done yourself and offset the costs against the rent.