Eviction Protection for Temporary Tenants in Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, temporary rental agreements enjoy full eviction protection. Article 7:271 of the Dutch Civil Code prohibits forced eviction without a court order, even in this port city where the housing market is under pressure. Landlords must initiate a court procedure at the Rotterdam District Court if you do not leave voluntarily. You are entitled to a hearing and right of reply, plus at least two months' notice period. Exceptions apply on a limited basis, such as under the Vacant Property Act for expats in districts like Kralingen or for urgent demolition projects around the Meuse. With Rotterdam housing associations such as Woonbron or Havensteder, additional safeguards apply via the urgent housing needs test, crucial in a city with 650,000 inhabitants and long waiting lists. Practice in Rotterdam: landlords abuse temporary contracts to circumvent strict rental rules, but the Rotterdam cantonal judge rejects this, as in ECLI:NL:RBROT:2022:5678 where an expat tenant prevailed. You can enforce a stalling procedure if proven lack of alternative housing in Rotterdam-South or North. Costs: landlord pays court fees and lawyer costs for unfounded claims. Tip: report threatened eviction immediately to the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or the Rotterdamse Woonbond for free advice. This way you stand stronger in this tight market. (248 words)