Extension of Temporary Rental Contract in Rotterdam: Rules and Pitfalls

In Rotterdam, with its vibrant rental market full of students, expats, and port workers, extending a temporary rental contract is a hot topic. Article 7:271 paragraph 2 BW allows a maximum of two extensions, with the total duration for room rentals not exceeding two years. For independent dwellings in neighborhoods such as Delfshaven or Kralingen, the chain provision applies: after three temporary contracts or two years, it automatically converts into a contract for an indefinite period. In Rotterdam practice, where demand for affordable rentals is high due to port expansion and universities like Erasmus, both parties require written consent; oral deals via WhatsApp or over a beer at the Feyenoord stadium do not count. Pitfalls: landlords in Rotterdam often try to circumvent indefinite duration surreptitiously with 'new' contracts, especially for temporary jobs in the Maasvlakte. Tenants can challenge this before the Rotterdam cantonal court, which acts strictly against abuse. Costs: extension may not result in a rent increase above the index without agreement, and for housing associations such as Woonbron or Havensteder, strict affordability standards apply with extra protection for low incomes. Tip: check contracts for sneaky clauses on tacit extension, common for rooms in Rotterdam-South. In case of doubt: engage a local lawyer via the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam. Practical examples: student rentals around the Witte de Withstraat or temporary contracts for Rotterdam dockworkers. (248 words)