Indefinite-Term Rental Contract in Leiden - Your Rights and Protection
An indefinite-term rental contract provides tenants in Leiden with the greatest security and legal protection. This contract has no fixed end date and can only be terminated by the landlord under specific conditions.
What Does an Indefinite-Term Contract Mean?
A rental agreement for an indefinite term in Leiden has no predetermined end date. The tenancy continues until one of the parties terminates it, with the tenant benefiting from strong rent protection.
Rent Protection in Leiden
As a tenant with an indefinite contract in Leiden, you have extensive rights:
- Termination protection: The landlord cannot terminate without reason
- Rent price regulation: Limited annual rent increase (social housing)
- Continuity upon sale: 'Purchase does not break rent' principle
- Takeover upon death: Possible by co-residents
When Can a Landlord Terminate?
In Leiden, a landlord can only terminate with a statutory ground:
| Reason for Termination | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Inappropriate tenant behavior | Repeated payment problems, nuisance, or damage |
| Own use necessary | Landlord wants to live in the property themselves |
| Refusal of new proposal | Tenant rejects reasonable offer without reason |
| Change in zoning plan | Municipality of Leiden changes the function of the property |
| Demolition or major renovation | Works make habitation impossible |
Steps in Case of Termination by Landlord
- Official letter: With clear statement of the reason
- Notice period: At least 3 months, sometimes up to 6 months
- Tenant's consent: Tenant must agree, otherwise court proceedings follow
- Judge's ruling: Only the judge can approve termination
Notice Periods for Landlords in Leiden
| Duration of Tenancy | Notice Period |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | 3 months |
| 1 to 2 years | 4 months |
| 2 to 3 years | 5 months |
| 3 years or more | 6 months |
Terminating as a Tenant in Leiden
As a tenant in Leiden, you can terminate more easily:
- Notice period: Between one and three months
- No reason required: You do not need to provide a reason
- Written notice: Preferably by registered mail
- End of the month: Unless otherwise agreed
From Temporary to Indefinite Contract
A temporary rental contract in Leiden converts to indefinite term if:
- The agreed period has passed AND
- The landlord does not terminate on time AND
- The tenant remains in the property
The landlord must terminate at least one month before the end of the fixed term.
Rent Increase in Leiden
With an indefinite-term contract, the landlord can adjust the rent annually:
Social Housing (up to €879.66)
- Limited to statutory maximum (inflation-linked)
- Additional increase possible for high income
Private Sector (above €879.66)
- According to agreements in the contract
- Often based on inflation (CPI)
What if the Property is Sold?
In Leiden, upon sale, the principle 'Purchase does not break rent' applies. This means:
- Your rental contract remains in force
- The new owner becomes your landlord
- Your rights do not change
- Termination by the new owner is not possible without cause
Death of the Tenant
Upon the death of the tenant in Leiden, housemates can take over the contract:
- Partner or spouse: Automatic continuation
- Co-tenant: Direct takeover possible
- Other residents: Request within 6 months to the landlord
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting in Leiden
Can a landlord terminate due to sale?
No, sale is not a valid reason. The new owner takes over your contract.
How long can I stay in my rental property?
In principle for an indefinite term, provided you comply with the agreements and pay rent.
What if the landlord terminates unjustly?
You do not have to leave. The landlord must go to court, which will assess the situation.
An indefinite-term rental contract provides optimal security in Leiden. Do not be intimidated by unjust terminations. For legal advice, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46, or submit matters to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.