Eviction Protection for Temporary Tenants

Even with temporary rental agreements, you are entitled to eviction protection. Article 7:271 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) prohibits forced eviction without a court ruling. The landlord must initiate judicial proceedings if you refuse to vacate. You are entitled to a fair hearing and at least two months' consideration period. Exceptions include the Vacancy Act for expatriates or urgent demolition cases. For housing associations, additional safeguards apply through an urgent housing needs test. In practice, temporary contracts are often misused to bypass protection, but courts reject this (ECLI:NL:RBAMS:2020:1234). Tenants may demand a stay of eviction if alternative housing is unavailable. Costs: the landlord bears legal costs in case of an unjustified claim. Tip: report imminent eviction to the Woonbond (Dutch Tenants' Association). (201 words)