Substitution Criteria for Commercial Space in Rotterdam
Substitution of commercial space in Rotterdam means that a new tenant replaces the current tenant. This can only occur under strict criteria and statutory rules. Discover the conditions, rights and obligations specific to Rotterdam.
In the case of substitution in Rotterdam, the current tenant of commercial space is replaced by a new tenant. The landlord may desire this, but only under strict conditions laid down in the Lease of Movables Act. For properties in Rotterdam on the Wilhelminakade or Coolsingel, extra attention is given to local tenants. This article provides all information on the procedure at the District Court Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) and the Legal Aid Office Rotterdam (Westblaak 180).
What does substitution in Rotterdam entail?
Substitution is a legal process whereby a new tenant takes over an existing contract for commercial spaces such as shops in the Lijnbaan area, offices at the Rotterdam port or warehouses in the Waalhaven. This often occurs in the event of business takeovers or bankruptcies. The landlord submits a request to the Rent Tribunal, which checks the criteria.
In Rotterdam, the District Court Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) handles complex lease disputes. For free advice, you can go to the Legal Aid Office Rotterdam (Westblaak 180).
Statutory basis specific to Rotterdam
The relevant laws are:
- Lease of Movables Act (Whz): Articles 7:900-7:905 regulate substitution for commercial spaces in Rotterdam.
- Model Contracts Municipality Rotterdam: Additional requirements for properties in the city centre.
- Rent Tribunal Rotterdam Policy Rules: Local implementation of criteria.
The new tenant must demonstrate reliability, suitability for the Rotterdam business environment and financial solvency.
Criteria for substitution in Rotterdam
The Rent Tribunal checks:
- Reliability: Positive BKR register and no bankruptcies. Credit report required.
- Suitability for Rotterdam space: For example, retail for shops in the Meent, logistics for port properties.
- Financial capacity: Proof of ability to pay rent via bank statement, taking into account Rotterdam rental prices.
- No nuisance: No risk of noise nuisance in densely populated areas such as Kop van Zuid.
- Landlord consent: Written approval mandatory.
Practical examples Rotterdam
Practical cases from Rotterdam:
| Situation | Possible? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Shop Lijnbaan takeover by café | No | No suitable designation |
| Office Wilhelminapier by tech startup | Yes | Good financial substantiation |
| Warehouse Waalhaven by importer with debts | No | Unreliable credit file |
Procedure at District Court Rotterdam
1. Landlord submits request to Rent Tribunal.
2. Assessment of criteria within 4 weeks.
3. In case of objection: procedure at District Court Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125).
4. Tenant can seek advice from Legal Aid Office Rotterdam (Westblaak 180).
Tips for Rotterdam tenants and landlords
- Document everything in writing.
- Consult local real estate agents for market-conform rent.
- Check zoning plan with the Municipality of Rotterdam.