When Mediation is Mandatory in Rental Cases in Rotterdam

Mediation is not always mandatory under Rotterdam's rental laws, but it is required in specific situations, such as rental disputes in districts like Delfshaven or Charlois. For rent increases above the standard rate, the landlord must first offer mediation or a procedure with the Rent Commission (Article 7:247 of the Dutch Civil Code). In Rotterdam rental properties with service charges or indexation, such as high-rise buildings in Kralingen, an attempt at amicable settlement is required before going to court. For evictions due to non-payment in Rotterdam, there is a duty to hear and improve, often involving mediation through local authorities. The Quality of Rental Disputes Act stipulates that courts in The Hague (for Rotterdam) may impose mediation. Benefits include preventing overburdened courts and aligning with Rotterdam's approach to rental conflicts, such as nuisance issues in Oude Westen. Non-compliance results in the dismissal of the claim. Examples include leaks in an apartment near the Erasmus Bridge or neighbor noise in Feijenoord – mediation is the first step via the Rotterdam Rental Team. Choose a mediator from the register of the Dutch Mediators Institute or local mediators registered with the Dutch Mediation Federation (MFN). If mediation fails, a report with evidence must be prepared. Tenants in Rotterdam can receive free assistance from the Legal Counter Rotterdam or Woonbron advisory points. In summary, the obligation depends on the type of dispute, but in Rotterdam, it is particularly beneficial due to fast, neighborhood-focused solutions.