Rent Arrears in Amsterdam: Procedure and Steps
**Rent arrears** arise when a tenant does not pay the rent on time. In Amsterdam, the landlord is required to give a **payment term** before taking further action. The procedure follows the **Rent Act** and **Civil Code (CC)**. Follow the correct steps to avoid problems, especially at the Rechtbank Amsterdam at Parnassusweg 220.
This article describes what to do in case of rent arrears in Amsterdam, your **rights and obligations**, and practical steps. Including tips for tenants with rent allowance and local support via the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam at Vijzelstraat 77.
What is rent arrears in Amsterdam?
**Rent arrears** means not paying rent, service or energy costs on time. Per **art. 7:200 CC**, rent must be paid on the agreed date. Even one day of arrears counts, but action often follows after a month. Landlords must first send a **payment term**.
Legal basis in Amsterdam
Important rules:
- Rent Act (art. 7:200 CC): Payment rules and procedures.
- CC art. 7:220-7:221: Payment term and payment plan.
- Rent Allowance Act: Extra protection for allowance recipients in Amsterdam.
- WSNP: Debt restructuring in case of payment problems.
Step-by-step plan for rent arrears in Amsterdam
For landlords: your steps
First send a **payment term** (min. 14 days, art. 7:220 CC):
- Payment term letter: Specify amount and deadline.
- Payment plan: Propose instalment agreements, confirm in writing.
- Dissolution of lease agreement: In case of non-compliance, send dissolution letter with end date (min. 1 month in advance).
- Lawsuit at Rechtbank Amsterdam: Use **discharge** or **summons** via Parnassusweg 220.
Note: No self-help such as changing locks without a court order.
For tenants: what to do?
Contact your landlord immediately. Pay as much as possible and request a payment arrangement. In case of problems: call the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77) for free advice. If you have rent allowance, check your benefit and report arrears to the Tax Authorities.
- Communicate and pay partially.
- Request deferment or plan.
- Seek help from Juridisch Loket or debt counselling.
- In case of summons: defend yourself at Rechtbank Amsterdam.
Local institutions in Amsterdam
- Rechtbank Amsterdam: Parnassusweg 220 – for dissolution and eviction.
- Juridisch Loket Amsterdam: Vijzelstraat 77 – free legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can the landlord evict me without a judge? No, only via procedure at Rechtbank Amsterdam.
What if I have rent allowance? Pay arrears with priority; allowance can help.