Eviction Protection for Tenants in Rotterdam in Case of Default

Eviction due to default (art. 7:231 BW) always requires judicial review by the district court judge at the Rotterdam District Court. Typical grounds in the port city: rent arrears of at least 3 months, serious nuisance in densely populated neighborhoods such as Delfshaven or Feijenoord, or illegal use of dwellings. Procedure: summons via bailiff, hearing before the Rotterdam district court judge, with possible penalty payment. Tenants can defend themselves with proof of payment, informal care argument (art. 7:274) or referral to local Rotterdam Rental Teams for mediation. During corona, a temporary scheme with deferral applied, particularly relevant for dock workers and flex workers. First warning is mandatory for reasonableness, in accordance with the Good Landlordship Act (2023) which obliges landlords to screen and warn. Examples from Rotterdam: noise nuisance with police report from Rotterdam Police Unit, or drug-related reports via Meldpunt Overlast Rotterdam. Urgent eviction only in case of acute danger (art. 7:236), such as fire hazard in old buildings on the Nieuwe Binnenweg. Tenant may never replace locks themselves. Costs: court fee €85, plus bailiff's costs. Alternative: free mediation via Huurteam Rotterdam or Woonbron Advice Point. For expat rentals in Rotterdam-South, shorter terms apply, but basic protection remains intact. Tips for Rotterdam tenants: settle arrears via payment plan with housing associations such as Vestia; landlords document reports with the municipality. After eviction, possible damage claim. This balance safeguards property rights and enjoyment of housing in the vibrant Maasstad. Seek free advice at Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or Woonwijzer. Prevent escalation with dialogue via local neighborhood mediation. (248 words)