Eviction for Rent Arrears in Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, in the case of rent arrears in the unregulated sector, the landlord can demand dissolution and eviction via the cantonal division of the District Court Rotterdam. First, he sends a written warning with a 14-day remedy period. If payment remains outstanding, a writ of summons follows. Grounds: rent at least three months in arrears or repeated arrears, often seen in neighbourhoods such as Charlois or Feijenoord. Tenants in Rotterdam can defend themselves with proof of payment, problems with rent allowance via the Tax Authorities or defects due to poor maintenance. The judge tests against reasonableness and fairness; during corona periods there was leniency via the Roteb helplines. The procedure costs €85 in court fees, and in case of loss the tenant pays the procedural costs. Urgent eviction is possible in case of nuisance or danger, such as in Rotterdam high-rise buildings. Prevention: propose a payment arrangement via the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or Woonbron advice points. The Good Landlordship Act obliges landlords to act reasonably. In 2023, evictions in Rotterdam decreased by 25% thanks to intervention by Huurteam Rotterdam and the municipality's anti-homelessness teams. Seek immediate help from Rotterdam debt counselling such as SchuldHulpMaatje or the Sociaal Raadhuis. (218 words)