Notice Periods and Procedures for Rental Agreements in Amsterdam

Termination of a rental agreement for a property in Amsterdam follows strict rules under Book 7, Title 3 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), with additional attention to the tight housing market and high rental prices in the city. Tenants can terminate the agreement in writing and by registered mail with one month's notice period, ideal for those moving within Amsterdam or to surrounding municipalities such as Amstelveen. Landlords must give three months' notice for indefinite-term contracts, with compelling reasons such as own occupation or renovation – crucial in neighbourhoods like the Jordaan or Oost where housing associations dominate. For rental prices below the Amsterdam liberalisation threshold (around €1,100 in 2024), strong rent protection applies; termination requires consent from the Huurcommissie, often via the Woonoverleg Amsterdam. Always include the end date, reason and contact details in the notice of termination letter. No response? The contract continues. Temporary contracts in Amsterdam end automatically, but tenants retain six months' rent protection, with a reporting obligation to the municipality for room rentals in the city centre. Dissolution due to non-performance, such as rent arrears, starts with a notice of default; proof of dispatch is essential, especially for mail to canal houses. For housing association rentals such as Ymere or De Key, additional Housing Act rules apply, including priority for emergency seekers under the Amsterdam Housing Allocation Ordinance. Avoid lengthy proceedings before the Amsterdam District Court by first pursuing mediation via the Juridisch Loket or Woonbelangen. After notice: immediately schedule a final inspection with the landlord or agent. Incorrect notice can lead to damage claims and fines under the Housing Allocation Ordinance. Use model letters from the central government or the municipal website. This ensures a smooth termination of the rental agreement in vibrant Amsterdam, without disputes before the Huurcommissie or court. (312 words)