Payment Plan for Tenants to Avoid Eviction in Netherlands
As a tenant in the Netherlands you may experience financial problems that lead to rent arrears and a risk of eviction. This article explains step by step how to request a payment plan, what rights and obligations you have, which documents are useful and when to seek legal help or mediation. The aim is to provide practical, understandable information so you can act quickly, structure communication with the landlord and follow formal procedures that can prevent eviction. For complex situations we refer to official bodies and procedures so you are well informed about options such as the Rent Tribunal or district court.[2] Read on for concrete steps and sample letters.
What is a payment plan?
A payment plan is a written agreement between tenant and landlord to pay outstanding rent in installments. The goal is to prevent eviction and buy time to organize your finances. Always put the proposal in writing and keep copies of all communication.
A written agreement can often postpone or avoid an eviction.
When can you ask for one?
- In case of rent arrears (rent): if you cannot pay rent temporarily, propose amounts and schedules.
- Immediately after a reminder (days): respond within the stated deadline and request deferral or spreading.
- On receipt of a summons (file): contact immediately and consider submitting written evidence.
Note dates, amounts and agreements in writing and keep the evidence safe.
How to draft a payment proposal?
A clear proposal includes your current income, proposed installments, exact amounts and supporting documents such as pay slips or benefit specifications. Be realistic and state how you will pay arrears and future rent.
- Include evidence (document, photo, evidence): pay slips or benefit statements.
- Ensure you send a signed and dated proposal (form) by email or registered post.
- Ask for written confirmation from the landlord (contact).
A concrete and substantiated proposal increases the chance the landlord agrees.
What if the landlord refuses?
If the landlord does not agree, seek help from official bodies and consider mediation or a complaint to the Rent Tribunal. In some cases the district court can still allow a settlement or rule on the eviction.[1]
For official background information check government.nl.[3]
Respond quickly to legal documents; deadlines are often short and important.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a payment plan stop an eviction?
- A plan can prevent eviction if both parties agree and the arrangements are kept.
- Is the landlord obliged to agree?
- No, a landlord is not always obliged, but refusal can sometimes be legally challenged.
- Where can I find official help?
- At the Rent Tribunal or via government information sites about tenancy law.[2]
How-To
- Within 14 days: contact the landlord and explain the situation (days).
- Payment proposal: make a written proposal for installments and amounts (rent).
- Gather evidence: add pay slips, bank statements and correspondence (evidence).
- Submit the proposal: send by email and registered post and keep receipts (file).
- Seek help: contact the Rent Tribunal or legal aid if no agreement is reached (contact).
Keep copies of everything and note calls with date, time and the contact persons name.
Key Takeaways
- Respond promptly and in writing to arrears and legal documents.
- Aim for a realistic, evidence-based payment plan.
- Get professional help if the landlord refuses or you are unsure.
Help and support
- [2] Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie)
- [1] Wetten.overheid.nl - Civil Code Book 7
- [3] Government.nl - tenancy law information
