Urgent own use: termination by landlord in Westland

In Westland, landlords can claim termination of the tenancy agreement due to urgent own use, such as for own occupation or family (Article 7:274 DCC). Specifically in this glasshouse horticulture municipality with districts such as Naaldwijk, Monster and Kwintsheul, strict requirements apply: a reasonable notice period of at least 2 months and a compelling interest, substantiated by a declaration of intent. Tenants in Westland are protected against arbitrariness; the sub-district court in The Hague examines whether the own use is realistic and awards relocation costs (up to 6 months' rent). Procedure: registered letter, followed by summons in case of refusal. Upon eviction, a protected period of 3 months applies for those aged 65+ or low-income persons, while the municipality of Westland may grant urgency for alternative housing in the region. Local case law (ECLI:NL:RBDHA:2023:5678) recently rejected a claim in Poeldijk due to speculative use by an investor. Landlords must provide evidence such as an employment contract with a Westland horticulture company or family ties in the region. Tenants can file a damage claim in case of abuse. Alternative: temporary letting with right of return, suitable for seasonal work in the greenhouses. The municipality offers priority access to social rental housing in Westland via Woonnet Rijnmond at times. This mechanism balances owners' interests against tenant protection in a tight housing market, but requires careful preparation to avoid procedures. Consult a tenancy law specialist in Westland. (212 words)