Temporary Rental Agreement for Residential Space in Rotterdam

Temporary Rental Agreement for Residential Space in Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, a temporary rental agreement for residential space is ideal for the flexible rental market in this vibrant port city. This contract runs for a maximum of two years and ends automatically, without notice period. Perfect for expats at the port or students at Erasmus University, but strictly follow the rules to prevent it from becoming indefinite. If in doubt: consult the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam.

What does a temporary rental agreement in Rotterdam entail?

This agreement for residential space in Rotterdam differs from the standard indefinite-term contract by having a clear end date. It suits temporary situations, such as expats working at the Port of Rotterdam or students during their studies. The tenant enjoys the home for the set period and vacates without hassle. Strict legal requirements prevent abuse on the Rotterdam rental market.

The law provides flexibility for landlords in Rotterdam while adequately protecting tenants. If it fails to meet the requirements, it automatically becomes an indefinite-term contract.

Legal basis for Rotterdam

The rules are set out in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 7, particularly Article 7:271(2) DCC. Since the Act on the Extension of Temporary Rental Agreements of 1 July 2016, the maximum duration is two years. General rental rules under Articles 7:201 to 7:296 DCC apply, including the notice requirement (Article 7:271(3) DCC): landlords must notify in writing at least one month before the end. More information in our article on the landlord's notice requirement. For disputes, go to the District Court of Rotterdam.

Conditions for a valid temporary rental in Rotterdam

For a legally valid agreement in Rotterdam:

• In writing and explicit: Clearly state the end date and reason (e.g., 'temporary rental for expat at Port of Rotterdam').
• Maximum two years: Extension only via a new agreement, not a continuous contract.
• Concrete reason: Such as temporary work at the Maasvlakte or studies in Kralingen.
• Automatic end: No automatic extension.

If anything is missing, the District Court of Rotterdam will rule it invalid (see Supreme Court 23 February 2018, ECLI:NL:HR:2018:271).

Comparison: temporary vs. indefinite in Rotterdam

Rights and obligations in Rotterdam rentals

Landlord

• Automatic end, but notice required.
• Maintain habitable condition (Art. 7:204 DCC).
• No damages claim for non-vacation; contract becomes indefinite.

Tenant

• Use until end date.
• Vacate on time, or face eviction via court.
• Deposit refunded upon proper handover.

Practical examples in Rotterdam

Example 1: Ahmed rents a flat in Rotterdam-South as an expat for 18 months at the port. Contract specifies end date 1 July 2025 and 'temporary work Port of Rotterdam'. Timely notice: he vacates smoothly.

Example 2: Lisa signs for three years 'temporary' in Charlois. Too long, so indefinite. Landlord must go via District Court of Rotterdam.

Example 3: Tom from Feijenoord receives no notice and stays. Contract becomes permanent; landlord to court.

End of tenancy and follow-up in Rotterdam

The tenancy ends automatically; hand over clean and empty. If tenant stays, it becomes indefinite (Art. 7:268 DCC). Eviction via District Court of Rotterdam. New temporary rental? Max. two years each time. Check with Municipality of Rotterdam or Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for advice.

Frequently asked questions Rotterdam