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Rent Arrears Rotterdam: Procedure and Steps

In case of **rent arrears** in Rotterdam, you as tenant or landlord must act correctly. Learn the **legal procedure**, **rights and obligations** and steps to resolve disputes, with info on Rechtbank Rotterdam.

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Rent Arrears Rotterdam: Procedure and Steps

**Rent arrears** arise when a tenant does not pay the rent on time. In Rotterdam, the landlord is required to grant a **payment term** before taking further action, as laid down in the **Rent Act** and **Civil Code (CC)**. Follow the correct steps to avoid legal problems.

This article describes what to do in case of rent arrears in Rotterdam, your **rights and obligations**, and practical steps. Including local institutions such as Rechtbank Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) and Juridisch Loket Rotterdam (Westblaak 180). Answers to frequently asked questions.

What is rent arrears?

**Rent arrears** means not paying rent, service costs or other tenancy agreement-related costs on time. Under **art. 7:200 CC**, rent must be paid on the agreed date. Even one day in arrears counts, but action is often only taken after a month. The landlord must first send a **payment term**.

Legal basis in Rotterdam

Key rules:

  • Rent Act (art. 7:200 CC): Payment rules and procedure in case of arrears.
  • CC art. 7:220 and 7:221: Requirements for **payment term** and **payment plan**.
  • Rent Allowance Act: Extra protection in case of allowance.
  • WSNP: Debt restructuring in case of unaffordable arrears. In Rotterdam via Rechtbank Rotterdam, Wilhelminaplein 100-125.

Step-by-step plan for rent arrears Rotterdam

Follow these steps as tenant or landlord. In case of disputes: consult Juridisch Loket Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 for free advice.

For landlords: your steps

First send a **payment term**. Procedure:

  1. Send payment term: Written reminder with amount and term (min. 14 days, art. 7:220 CC).
  2. Propose payment plan: Written agreement on instalment payments if no response.
  3. Termination of tenancy agreement: In case of non-payment after plan: written termination with 1 month notice period.
  4. Start court proceedings: If no vacating: summons at Rechtbank Rotterdam, Wilhelminaplein 100-125.

Prohibited: Locking yourself or removing belongings without a court order.

For tenants: what should you do?

Immediately contact your landlord in case of payment problems. Request a **payment arrangement**. Continue paying current rent to prevent termination. In case of rent allowance: check status via Tax Authorities.

Need help? Go to Juridisch Loket Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 for free assistance or debt counselling.

Specific to Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, Rechtbank Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) handles tenancy disputes. For urgency: judgment with enforcement. Municipality of Rotterdam also offers debt help via local services.

Frequently asked questions

Can the landlord cut off the electricity? No, that is prohibited.

Rent allowance and arrears? Allowance covers current rent; apply for advance.

What if I go bankrupt? Apply for WSNP at Rechtbank Rotterdam.

Last update: 2023. Always consult an expert for your situation.