What is a summons for a rental property in Westland?
A **summons** is an official, legal demand from your landlord to settle an outstanding debt (such as **arrears of rent**, repair costs or other obligations) within a specified period – usually **14 days**. This is a crucial step towards possible **eviction** if you do not comply. In the Westland region, under the District Court of The Hague (district), this is governed by Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), articles 7:960 and 7:961.
Always take a summons seriously: it gives you the chance to prevent escalation to a **payment order**, **enforcement order** or court proceedings. This article is aimed at tenants in Westland and provides practical advice on your options.
When do you receive a summons in Westland?
Landlords in Westland send a summons for breaches of the tenancy agreement, including:
- Arrears of rent: Arrears of two or more months' rent.
- Damage to the property: Refusal to pay for repairs or damage.
- Service charges: Outstanding amounts for maintenance or utilities.
- Breaches of the tenancy agreement: Unauthorised subletting, nuisance or non-compliance with house rules.
By law, the landlord must first send a summons. In case of disputes, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland for free advice.
How do you recognise a summons?
A summons often arrives by **registered mail** or **e-mail** and contains:
- Specific reason (e.g. €1,500 arrears of rent).
- Total amount including interest or collection costs.
- **Deadline** (usually 14 days after receipt).
- Warning of legal follow-up.
- Possibly a proposal for a payment arrangement.
Tip for Westland: Unlike a regular reminder, a summons has legal force and can lead to proceedings at the District Court of The Hague.
Your rights upon a summons in Westland
You are not powerless: as a tenant in Westland, you have strong rights. Below are the key points:
1. Dispute the summons in writing
Disagree with the claim? Respond by **registered letter** with your objections. This temporarily halts the procedure and prevents immediate action.
2. Reasonable response period
The period must be reasonable (at least 14 days). In case of financial problems in Westland, you can request an extension; document this well.
3. Seek local help
Seek support from:
- Juridisch Loket Westland for free tenancy law advice.
- Huurdersbond.
- Rechtshulp (Arslan Advocaten, specialised in the Hague region).
- District Court of The Hague (district Westland).
These parties help with negotiating, filing objections or defence before the district judge.
What to do after receipt?
- Check the content: Is the amount and reason correct?
- Pay immediately if possible, or arrange a payment plan.
- Contact the landlord for discussion.
- Seek help: Call the Juridisch Loket Westland (free initial consultation).
- Prevent court proceedings: Follow up within the period to avoid eviction.
In Westland, cases often escalate to the District Court of The Hague. With timely action, you keep your home.
Frequently asked questions about summons in Westland
- Can I ignore the summons?
- No, this leads to faster eviction.
- What if I pay partially?
- Negotiate an arrangement; keep proof.
- Need help?
- Start at Juridisch Loket Westland.
Last update: 2023. Always consult a professional for your situation.