Tenant Notice in the Netherlands: Email or Letter
As a tenant in the Netherlands you can end your tenancy by email or letter, but there are important rules and deadlines to follow. This guide explains in plain language the legal requirements, how to write a valid notice, which deadlines apply and when termination of the lease is possible. We also discuss which pieces of evidence you need, how to secure proof and what steps to take if the landlord does not cooperate. The text refers to official sources and practical actions so you, as a tenant, know your rights and can limit risks.
When is a notice valid?
A notice is valid if you comply with the agreed notice period in your lease or the statutory periods in the Civil Code Book 7.[1] If there is uncertainty about the period or the agreement, note the sending date and keep proof of receipt. For disputes about rent or service charges, the Rent Tribunal or the court can provide clarity.[2]
How to send a valid notice?
A valid notice includes your name, address, the rented property's address, the date you end the tenancy, and your signature (for a physical letter) or a clear signature in an email. Also state when you will return the keys and whether you allow an inspection. Email is allowed, but you must be able to prove the landlord received it.
- Notice letter or email with date and signature.
- Rent payment receipts and any deposit records.
- Photos or other evidence of the property's condition.
Deadlines and termination
Pay attention to the notice period in your contract; short fixed-term leases and special situations can have different rules. Termination of the lease (for example due to serious defects) often requires evidence and sometimes a court decision. The Rent Tribunal mainly deals with rent and service charge disputes; procedural issues may go to the cantonal court.[2]
What if the landlord does not cooperate?
Continue to act according to the agreement: send a reminder, document contact attempts and keep all correspondence. If stuck, involve the Rent Tribunal for rent and service charge issues or seek legal assistance for termination or eviction matters.[2][3]
- Contact the landlord first and request written confirmation.
- Collect evidence such as emails, registered mail receipts and photos.
- Consider a procedure at the Rent Tribunal or the court if discussions fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I give notice by email?
- Yes, notice by email is possible if you have proof the landlord received the email. Keep sending and receipt evidence.
- What information must the notice contain?
- Include your full name, the rental address, the date of notice, the desired end date and a signature or clear signing.
- What if the landlord refuses to accept the keys or disputes the notice?
- Document contact and delivery attempts, request written confirmation and involve the Rent Tribunal or the court if necessary.
How-To
- Check your lease and determine the applicable notice period.
- Write a written notice with date, address and signature.
- Send the notice and keep proof of sending or receipt.
- Keep all evidence such as receipts and photos of the property.
- If the landlord resists, contact the Rent Tribunal or seek legal assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Always respect the notice period stated in your lease.
- Keep proof of sending and receipt of your notice.
- Engage official bodies early if a dispute arises.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal - information and forms
- Wetten.nl - Civil Code Book 7 (Tenancy Law)
- Government.nl - information for tenants
