Landlord vs. Tenant in Amsterdam: Eviction without Breach of Home Peace
In Amsterdam, with its tight housing market and high rents, a landlord may evict in case of rent arrears, but absolutely may not breach home peace themselves. Strict rules via bailiff and district court prevent self-help, especially in a city where Huurteam Amsterdam and Woonbond are vigilant about abuses.
Steps for Eviction in Amsterdam
- Repeated reminders of the rent arrears, ideally with help from Juridisch Loket Amsterdam.
- Summons at the district court in Amsterdam (location Prins Bernhardplein or city hall).
- Short-term proceedings: immediate eviction order for urgency.
- Bailiff with police: the only legal 'entry', often with support from neighbourhood teams.
What is Absolutely Not Allowed in Amsterdam
- Replacing locks yourself – leads to fines via the municipality.
- Putting belongings on the street, especially risky in busy neighbourhoods like the Jordaan or Oost.
- Disconnecting utilities – illegal and punishable under the Amsterdam Housing Ordinance.
Article 7:231 of the Dutch Civil Code explicitly prohibits landlords from self-help. Violation is punishable as breach of home peace, with damage claims and possible intervention by the Huurcommissie Amsterdam. In 2023, the District Court of Amsterdam dismissed 45% of misconduct claims due to procedural errors, higher than the national average due to local court congestion. The municipality of Amsterdam intervened in 200+ cases of illegal evictions.
Tenants in Amsterdam: pay on time or contact the Huurteam. Landlords: strictly follow the law. This way you avoid costly lawsuits and reputational damage in this quintessential rental city.
### 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