Grounds for Termination by Landlords in Delft: When Is It Allowed?

Landlords in Delft cannot terminate a tenancy agreement arbitrarily; there must be valid grounds for termination, as laid down in Article 7:271 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). Three main categories also apply locally: urgent own use (e.g., for family), non-payment of rent (after summons), and disorderly conduct. In Delft, with its tight housing market and strict regulation by the municipality, the landlord must prove that no reasonable alternative exists, such as a property via Woonbron or DUWO. For own use, the tenant has priority for an alternative property in Delft or the surrounding region. The court examines strictly: only about 20% of terminations succeed, partly due to pressure from the Delft tenants' association. Procedure: written notice of termination with reason, followed by possible tenant consent or court proceedings at the District Court of The Hague, Delft branch. Tenants with urgency, often students or emergency seekers via the Delft urgency list, have extra protection. Example: a landlord in the city centre wants to move in themselves after retirement – this qualifies as urgent own use provided it is proven with ties to the city, such as family near TU Delft. For renovation, common in historic buildings around the Market, temporary termination applies with rehousing obligation. Landlords risk damage claims for unjustified termination, plus fines from the Municipality of Delft. Tenants can demand a penalty payment for non-compliance. These grounds balance interests in the Delft rental market and prevent arbitrariness. (248 words)