In Amsterdam, a landlord may terminate a rental agreement for urgent reasons, such as personal occupancy, renovation, or urgent personal use, in accordance with Article 7:274 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). Due to the tight housing market in the city, with long waiting lists at housing corporations such as Ymere or De Key, this is a sensitive issue. Unilateral termination requires a notice period of at least one month and must be sent by registered letter or bailiff’s writ. The reasons for termination must be objective and demonstrable, not arbitrary; the tenant may refuse, after which the subdistrict court in Amsterdam will decide. If approved, a new deadline for vacating the property will follow. Unlike mutual consent, which is voluntary and does not involve the court, this process necessitates legal steps. Landlords must provide evidence, such as family needs or renovation plans approved by the Municipality of Amsterdam. Tenants in social housing have a right of return after renovation, supported by local regulations.
Procedure:
- Notice letter with grounds for termination;
- Tenant’s response via the Amsterdam Rent Commission or directly to the subdistrict court at Piet Heinkade.
Costs:
- Court fees around €85 and potential legal representation costs.
The success rate is low for weak motives, particularly in protected segments. Advice: First negotiate mutual consent or seek relocation assistance via the Amsterdam Fund. The law protects Amsterdam residents against abuse of power in this overheated market.