In Westland, known for its greenhouses and agricultural dynamism, partner maintenance is a logical continuation of the parental duty of support, especially for young couples studying at nearby universities of applied sciences such as Inholland in Delft. Article 1:157 DCC regulates contributions between partners during their joint household, taking into account the high living costs in areas such as 's-Gravenzande and Naaldwijk.
Conditions in Westland
Both partners must be studying full-time, such as in agricultural engineering or horticulture at Van Hall Larenstein, or have a temporary income gap due to seasonal work in greenhouse horticulture. The maintenance obligation continues until 1 year after the end of the last study, taking into account local programs such as mbo courses at Lentiz.
Calculation
Based on ability to pay and need, often 50/50 with equal income. In Westland, specific costs are taken into account such as rent in Poeldijk (€900+ per month), study books for agricultural subjects and living expenses with Westland products. A judge in The Hague applies this to local incomes from greenhouse work.
Difference from child maintenance
In contrast to the 18-21 year parental obligation, partner maintenance does not end at a fixed age, but upon self-sufficiency, such as after a job at a Westland horticulture company. Judges scrutinise more strictly for cohabiting couples in Monster or Kwintsheul.
Example: A partner with income from greenhouse horticulture pays €450 to the studying partner, adjusted for seasonal changes. Upon divorce, maintenance continues until the end of studies, as confirmed in recent cases at the Rotterdam District Court.