Termination of Rental Agreement by Landlord in Utrecht

In Utrecht, a landlord may terminate the rental agreement for urgent reasons, such as own occupation, renovation or urgent own use, in accordance with Article 7:274 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). This is particularly relevant in a city like Utrecht, where the rental market is tight due to the growth of students and commuters in neighbourhoods such as Kanaleneiland or Lombok. Unilateral termination requires a notice period of at least one month and must be sent by registered mail or bailiff's writ. Reasons must be objective and demonstrable, not arbitrary; the tenant may refuse, after which the district court (kantonrechter) in Utrecht decides. Upon approval, the tenant receives a new deadline to vacate. Unlike voluntary mutual consent, this enforces legal proceedings. Landlords must provide evidence, such as a family declaration for occupation or renovation plans approved by the Municipality of Utrecht. Tenants in Utrecht have a right of first refusal to return after renovation, supported by local tenant initiatives such as the Huurteam Utrecht. Procedure: termination letter with detailed grounds, tenant's response via the Utrecht Rent Committee or directly to the district court at Hamburgerstraat. Costs include court fees (around €85 for simple cases) and possibly a lawyer. Success rate is low for weak motives, due in part to strict scrutiny in Utrecht cases. Advice: first try to negotiate mutual consent, or contact the Juridisch Loket Utrecht for free advice. The law protects tenants against abuse of power, especially in busy student cities like Utrecht. (248 words)