Eviction Procedure After Summons for Rental Contract in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the eviction procedure starts after an unanswered summons from your landlord. The landlord summons you before the district court in Amsterdam (location Prins Bernhardplein or Forum), where a hearing is scheduled. You can raise a defense with proof of rent payment, medical certificates, or other circumstances such as illness or unemployment. In case of rent arrears, the judge usually grants dissolution of the rental agreement and eviction (Article 7:271 DCC), unless compelling reasons such as pregnancy or informal care dictate otherwise. After the judgment, execution follows by a bailiff; in Amsterdam, you can request a postponement of up to a maximum of 6 weeks. In case of refusal, the police assist with forced eviction, often with extra attention to the strict winter regulation (November-March) via the municipality. Costs amount to €500-€2500, including court fees and bailiff costs. Protected tenants in Amsterdam, such as pregnant women, those over 65, or emergency tenants via WoningNet, receive extra safeguards and possible intervention by the Huurteam Amsterdam. Prevent escalation by paying before the hearing or arranging a payment plan via the landlord or Woonspace. After eviction, the rent arrears remain, with collection, BKR registration, and risk of housing ban on new urgency applications. Immediately apply for an urgency declaration at the Dienst Wonen of the municipality of Amsterdam for an emergency shelter place. Free assistance is available via the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (location at IJdok or Anton de Komplein), Huurteam Amsterdam, or the municipality's debt counseling service. In the rental pressure of Amsterdam, eviction is a last resort, but legally strictly enforced. Learn the steps and local helplines to protect yourself.