Eviction Protection for Tenants in Cases of Default in Westland

Eviction due to default (Article 7:231 of the Dutch Civil Code) in Westland always requires judicial review by the subdistrict court in The Hague. Typical grounds in this greenhouse horticulture municipality include: rent arrears (minimum of 3 months), serious nuisance caused by greenhouse workers, or illegal use of premises for cannabis cultivation. Procedure: summons served by a bailiff in Westland, hearing at the subdistrict court in The Hague, with possible penalty payments. Tenants in Poeldijk or 's-Gravenzande defend themselves with proof of payment, caregiving arguments (Article 7:274 of the Dutch Civil Code), or local circumstances such as seasonal work in greenhouses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a temporary deferral arrangement applied, which was relevant for many temporary workers in the region. A first warning is mandatory for reasonableness, particularly for Westland landlords of agricultural housing. Examples: noise pollution from greenhouses documented in police reports from Wateringen or Naaldwijk. Urgent eviction is only permitted in cases of immediate danger (Article 7:236 of the Dutch Civil Code), such as the risk of collapse in old greenhouses. Tenants are not allowed to change locks themselves. Costs: court fees €85, local bailiff fees approximately €500. Alternative: mediation via the Westland Tenants’ Team or Woonstichting. The recent Good Landlordship Act (2023) mandates screening and warnings, which is crucial for expat tenants in Monster. Expat contracts may have shorter terms, but basic protection remains in place. Tips: tenants should address arrears through payment plans based on greenhouse income; landlords should document complaints with the Westland municipality. After eviction, damage claims may be pursued via the Council of State. This balances property rights with the right to housing in our horticultural region. Free advice is available from the Legal Counter Westland or Tenants’ Interests Westland. Prevent escalation through dialogue with local neighbourhood teams.