Joint Tenancy in Cohabitation or Partnership in Westland

In Westland, the largest greenhouse region in the Netherlands with many social rental homes via Woonbron and local housing associations, joint tenancy in cohabitation or registered partnership offers crucial additional protection for horticulture workers and their partners. Partners in places such as Naaldwijk, Monster or Kwintsheul automatically become joint tenants if they are registered at the same address and have cohabited for at least two years, unless the landlord refuses on reasonable grounds such as seasonal contracts in glasshouse horticulture. This prevents homelessness in case of relationship breakdown, which is particularly relevant in Westland due to the tight housing market. The application is processed via a change form with the landlord, such as Huurstunt or local cooperatives, with proof of joint living expenses such as energy bills from the greenhouse community. Legally enshrined in Article 7:268 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), this applies to both social rental in Poeldijk and private sector rental in Honselersdijk. In case of refusal by the landlord, appeal is possible to the Rent Tribunal in The Hague, with specific attention to Westland tenants. Advantages: equal right to continuation of the tenancy after breakup and inheritance law protection, ideal for expats in horticulture. Disadvantages: ongoing liability for rent arrears, which brings risks with flexible jobs. For temporary relationships or seasonal workers: consider a cohabitation agreement with a rental clause at the notary in 's-Gravenzande. When having children, partners receive priority in allocation via the Westland housing desk. Document everything in writing, retain correspondence with the Municipality of Westland and, in case of urgent need, consult the district court in The Hague for interim joint tenancy.