Converting Temporary Rental Agreement to Indefinite Term in Amsterdam
Converting a temporary rental agreement to an indefinite contract in Amsterdam means that you and your landlord agree that the tenancy continues without an end date. This is useful if you want to stay longer in your Amsterdam home and the landlord cooperates. In this guide for Amsterdam tenants, you will find the rules, steps, and local tips.
What does conversion mean for Amsterdam tenants?
A temporary rental agreement in Amsterdam ends on a fixed date, often for starters, expats, or temporary housing. Upon conversion to an indefinite contract, the tenancy continues until termination. This occurs when:
- The contract expires and you want to stay in Amsterdam.
- Your Amsterdam landlord agrees to ongoing tenancy.
- You both sign an addendum for an indefinite term.
Legal rules in the Netherlands and Amsterdam
The basis is in the Civil Code Book 7. Relevant articles:
- Art. 7:237 CC: Termination of indefinite tenancy with notice periods.
- Art. 7:238 CC: Extension rules for temporary contracts.
- Art. 7:240 CC: Automatic extension only if not terminated in regulated tenancies.
In Amsterdam, stricter rent rules apply via the municipality, especially for social housing (housing associations) and mid-range rent. Private sector properties (above €1,000 rent) have less protection, but conversion always requires consent.
Steps for conversion in Amsterdam
1. Mutual agreement
Both parties must agree. Document this by email, letter, or new addendum. In Amsterdam, we recommend having it checked for validity at the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77).
2. No automatic conversion
Even after the end date, it does not automatically become indefinite without agreement. If you stay without a new deal, you risk termination. In disputes: District Court Amsterdam, Parnassusweg 220.
3. Notice periods after conversion
| Type of tenancy | Tenant's notice period | Landlord's notice period |
|---|---|---|
| Private sector Amsterdam | 1 month | 1-3 months |
| Social housing / Regulated tenancy | 1 month | 2-3 months min. |
Rights and tips for Amsterdam
After conversion, you retain tenant protection: rent increase max. 5.3% (2024), no forced eviction without reason. Check with Woonspace Amsterdam or Huurteam for local advice. In case of problems: free help at Juridisch Loket Amsterdam.
Tip: In Amsterdam's tight market, indefinite tenancy is gold. Document everything and consider a fixed rent price clause.