Convert Temporary Rental Contract to Indefinite Term in Rotterdam
Converting a temporary rental contract to an indefinite contract in Rotterdam means that you and your landlord agree that the tenancy continues without an end date. This is useful if you want to stay longer in your Rotterdam property and the landlord cooperates. This article provides everything about the procedure, local rules, and useful contacts in Rotterdam.
Meaning of Converting Temporary to Indefinite Contract
A temporary rental contract in Rotterdam ends on a fixed date, often for temporary housing such as starter homes or expat accommodation. Upon conversion to an indefinite contract, the tenancy continues until termination. This occurs when:
- The contract is nearing expiry and you want to stay in Rotterdam.
- Your landlord agrees to ongoing tenancy.
- You enter into an addendum or new agreement.
Legal Rules in Rotterdam
The basis is in Civil Code Book 7. Relevant articles:
- Art. 7:237 CC: Termination without end date with fixed periods.
- Art. 7:238 CC: Extension of temporary lease.
- Art. 7:240 CC: Automatic extension to indefinite upon late termination.
In Rotterdam, additional rules apply via the municipal Housing Allocation Ordinance for priority housing or temporary permits. Protections differ for social housing (housing associations such as Woonbron) or private sector. Housing Act tenancies provide strong tenant rights.
Conditions for Conversion in Rotterdam
Conversion is possible without fixed periods, provided that:
1. Consent of Both Parties
Tenant and landlord must agree. Document this in writing, e.g., via email or registered letter. In Rotterdam, we recommend referring to local Rent Team support.
2. No Automatic Conversion
An exceeded end date does not automatically result in indefinite tenancy, unless the landlord consents. If you stay without agreement? You risk termination. Contact Juridisch Loket Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 for advice.
3. Notice Periods After Conversion
Without a new end date, the following applies:
| Type of Tenancy | Tenant's Notice Period | Landlord's Notice Period |
|---|---|---|
| Private Sector Rotterdam | 1 month | 1 month (or contractual) |
| Social Housing (Housing Act) | 1 month | Min. 3 months |
Rights and Obligations in Rotterdam
After conversion, you retain all tenant rights, such as protection against arbitrary termination. Landlords must have reasonable grounds, especially for association properties. Check your rent price via the Woonspace.nl point in Rotterdam. For disputes: Rechtbank Rotterdam, Wilhelminaplein 100-125 or Rent Team Rotterdam.
Step-by-Step Plan for Rotterdam
- Contact landlord before expiry.
- Propose in writing to extend without end date.
- Enter into an addendum with signatures.
- Check local rules at Juridisch Loket Rotterdam.
- If refused: seek free advice from Rent Team.
Specific to Rotterdam: for temporary permits (art. 4.2 Housing Allocation Ordinance), you may need to apply for a new allocation.