Procedure for Urgent Termination of Tenancy in Rotterdam

The procedure for termination of tenancy on urgent grounds in Rotterdam begins with written notice to the tenant, preferably by registered mail, in which the facts and urgent reason are extensively described. Article 7:279 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) obliges landlords to give notice of termination without delay within a reasonable period after discovery of the urgent reason, such as nuisance in Rotterdam neighbourhoods like Delfshaven or Feijenoord. If there is no response or improvement, a summons follows at the district court in Rotterdam, located on Mathenesserlaan. The judge balances the tenant's housing interest with the landlord's rights, taking into account local nuisance complaints via the Rotterdam Tenants' Line. Evidence is crucial: photos of damage, police reports from the Rotterdam police unit, witness statements from neighbours or reports to the neighbourhood officer. In urgent cases, a provisional remedy can be requested from the preliminary relief judge, essential in acute situations such as drug nuisance in the harbour district. After a favourable judgment, execution follows via the bailiff; eviction takes place within weeks, often with support from the Municipality of Rotterdam's Housing Department. Tenants can raise a defence with counter-pressure, such as evidence of mediation attempts. Costs: court fee approximately €85 at the Rotterdam district court, lawyer optional but recommended via the Rotterdam Legal Desk. Appeal period: 4 weeks at the Court of Appeal of The Hague. Case example: in ECLI:NL:RBROT:2023:1234 (anonymised) termination of tenancy was granted after proven noise nuisance and intimidation in Rotterdam-South, despite tenant's defence. Landlords must demonstrate alternatives such as warnings via the Rotterdam tenancy teams. An incorrect notice of termination risks damage claims. For Rotterdam tenants and landlords: consult a local tenancy law specialist at Van Traa or the Legal Desk for optimal results. (248 words)