Avoiding Nuisance as a Tenant
As a tenant in Leiden, you are obliged not to cause hindrance to neighbours or surrounding residents. This is a fundamental rule of good tenancy. In the event of serious or persistent nuisance, you risk termination of your tenancy agreement.
Types of Nuisance
| Type of Nuisance | Examples | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Nuisance | Loud music, shouting, DIY work | Moderate to severe |
| Odour Nuisance | Rubbish, pets, drug use | Severe |
| Intimidation | Aggressive behaviour, threats | Very severe |
| Unlawful Practices | Drug trafficking, cannabis cultivation | Very severe |
| Pollution | Waste accumulation, clutter | Moderate to severe |
Permitted Activities
Normal use of the dwelling is not a problem:
- DIY work during the day (between 8:00 and 19:00)
- A one-off party (inform neighbours in advance)
- Keeping pets (provided not prohibited in the tenancy agreement)
- Children playing during the day
Consequences of Nuisance
Step-by-Step Plan in Case of Nuisance
- First Warning: Written notification from landlord
- Consultation: Meeting for mediation
- Behavioural Instruction: Formal guideline with conditions
- Final Warning: Threat of eviction
- Legal Step: Request for dissolution of tenancy agreement
- Eviction: Forced vacation of the dwelling
Responsibility for Others
As a tenant, you are liable for:
- Actions of household members
- Behaviour of visitors
- Nuisance caused by pets
What if You Are Accused?
In the event of a complaint about nuisance:
- Take the complaint seriously and engage in discussion
- Respond in writing to notifications from the landlord
- Request mediation in case of disagreement
- Seek legal assistance in case of threatened eviction
Can eviction take place due to nuisance?
Yes, in the case of serious or repeated nuisance, a court may dissolve the tenancy agreement after a balancing of interests.
What if neighbours file unfounded complaints?
Document everything and gather evidence of normal living behaviour. Request the landlord to conduct a neutral investigation.
May a landlord install cameras?
This is only permitted under strict privacy rules and with clear justification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my tenancy rights?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe dwelling, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and the possibility to file complaints about defects.
Can the landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?
No, rent increases must comply with statutory rules and be announced at least two months in advance.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be refunded within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless damage has been identified.
Local Information Leiden
Court: District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location
Legal Aid Office: Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46