Are fixed-term rental contracts still allowed?

Since 1 July 2024 new contracts are in principle indefinite. Temporary contracts are still allowed for some groups, such as students who rent temporarily for their studies. Check the exceptions with the Huurcommissie or a legal adviser if your landlord offers a fixed term.

How much notice do I have to give as a tenant?

For a regular contract the tenant's notice period is equal to the rent payment period, usually one month, with a minimum of one month and a maximum of three. Give notice by registered letter or bailiff's writ, so you can prove it was received.

Can the landlord end my indefinite contract?

Only on legal grounds such as urgent own use or serious breach of contract, and if you do not agree, a court decides. Landlords cannot simply end an indefinite contract.

Rental contracts in the Netherlands: indefinite and fixed-term

Since July 2024 most new Dutch rental contracts must be for an indefinite period. Fixed-term contracts are only allowed in specific situations. This page explains what to look for before you sign.

Last reviewed 12 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.

What a contract should contain

A Dutch rental contract (huurovereenkomst) should at least state the address, the start date, the base rent (kale huur), the service costs, the deposit, the payment date and whether the contract is indefinite or fixed-term. If you do not read Dutch, ask for an English translation and ask which version applies if they differ.

Indefinite is the norm

Since 1 July 2024 new rental contracts are in principle for an indefinite period. Fixed-term contracts are only allowed in specific cases, for example for students who rent temporarily for their studies, and for a few other groups set out in the law. An indefinite contract gives you rent protection: the landlord can only end it on legal grounds, and if you disagree, a court decides.

Notice periods

As a tenant you can end an indefinite contract at any time with a notice period equal to your payment period, usually one month, with a minimum of one and a maximum of three months. Give notice by registered letter (aangetekend) or by bailiff's writ, so you can prove it was received.

Before you sign

Check that you are allowed to register at the address. See address registration.
Compare the deposit and service costs with the rules in deposit and costs.
Make a dated inspection report with photos when you get the keys (opleverrapport). It protects your deposit when you leave.

Frequently asked questions

Are fixed-term rental contracts still allowed?: Since 1 July 2024 new contracts are in principle indefinite. Temporary contracts are still allowed for some groups, such as students who rent temporarily for their studies. Check the exceptions with the Huurcommissie or a legal adviser if your landlord offers a fixed term.
How much notice do I have to give as a tenant?: For a regular contract the tenant's notice period is equal to the rent payment period, usually one month, with a minimum of one month and a maximum of three. Give notice by registered letter or bailiff's writ, so you can prove it was received.
Can the landlord end my indefinite contract?: Only on legal grounds such as urgent own use or serious breach of contract, and if you do not agree, a court decides. Landlords cannot simply end an indefinite contract.