Temporary Rental Agreement for Residential Space in Den Haag
In Den Haag, a temporary rental agreement for residential space is ideal for expats at international organizations or students at Leiden University. This contract runs for a maximum of two years and ends automatically without notice period. Note: strict legal rules prevent it from becoming an indefinite contract. If in doubt, consult the Juridisch Loket Den Haag for free advice.
What does a temporary rental agreement in Den Haag entail?
This agreement for housing in the Hofstad has a clear end date, unlike an indefinite-term lease. Perfect for temporary situations such as work at embassies, studies, or projects in the region. The tenant vacates the property automatically at the end, provided everything is legally compliant. The law protects against abuse; errors result in conversion to an indefinite contract via the Rechtbank Den Haag.
Since 2016, this flexible option has been available on the Den Haag rental market, where demand is high due to international residents.
Legal basis in Den Haag
The rules are set out in the Civil Code Book 7, particularly Article 7:271(2) CC. Maximum two years since the Temporary Rental Extension Act (July 1, 2016). General rental laws (Articles 7:201-7:296 CC) apply, including the notice obligation (Art. 7:271(3) CC): the landlord must notify in writing at least one month before the end. More info in our article on the landlord's notice obligation.
Conditions for a valid temporary rental in Den Haag
For validity:
- In writing and explicit: Clearly state the end date and reason (e.g., 'expat work at the Den Haag court').
- Maximum two years: Extension only via a new agreement.
- Concrete reason: Such as temporary stay due to job or studies in Den Haag.
- Automatic end: No automatic rollover.
Non-compliance? The court (see Supreme Court February 23, 2018, ECLI:NL:HR:2018:271) declares it indefinite. Check with the Gemeente Den Haag or Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Comparison: temporary vs. indefinite in Den Haag
| Aspect | Temporary rental | Indefinite term |
|---|---|---|
| End of rental | Automatic after end date | Termination via Rechtbank Den Haag |
| Duration | Max. 2 years | Unlimited |
| Notice | 1 month in writing | Not required |
| Rent review | Less protection | Fully regulated |
| Re-renting | New agreement possible | Continuous |
Rights and obligations in Den Haag rentals
Landlord
- Automatic end with notice.
- Keep property habitable (Art. 7:204 CC).
- No damage claims; otherwise becomes indefinite.
Tenant
- Use until end date.
- Return vacant and clean; otherwise eviction via Rechtbank Den Haag.
- Deposit refunded upon departure.
Practical examples from Den Haag
Example 1: Jan, an expat at an embassy, rents for 18 months in Scheveningen. Contract ends July 1, 2025 with notice; smooth departure.
Example 2: Marie signs for three years in the city center. Too long: automatically indefinite; landlord must go to Rechtbank Den Haag.
Example 3: Pieter in Zuiderpark receives no letter and stays. Becomes indefinite; eviction via court.
End of rental and next steps in Den Haag
Rental ends automatically; return vacant and clean. Tenant stays? Indefinite contract, eviction via Rechtbank Den Haag (Art. 7:268 CC). New temporary rental max. two years possible. Seek advice from Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Frequently asked questions about temporary rentals in Den Haag
Can I extend?
No, that makes it indefinite. New max. two years with fresh reason.
No notice?
Rental continues as indefinite. See notice obligation or Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Does this apply to room rentals in Den Haag?
Yes, but check room-specific rules with Gemeente Den Haag or Juridisch Loket.