Termijnbewoners

Termijnbewoners is a Dutch term used in housing to describe residents who occupy a dwelling on a fixed-term basis. It is a descriptive label rather than a formal legal status and is commonly used by housing associations, property managers and municipal housing offices. A termijnbewoner typically signs a tenancy agreement with a defined end date; at the end of the term the contract can expire automatically or be renegotiated, depending on the agreement and the landlord's plans.

Common contexts include temporary accommodation during renovations, transitional housing for people transitioning to permanent housing, student housing, or other situations where short-term occupancy is desired due to housing supply constraints. The arrangement can also be used to bridge vacancies or to accommodate newcomers while a longer-term decision is made.

Legal framework: In the Netherlands, tenancy relationships are governed by Book 7 of the Civil Code (huurrecht). Fixed-term contracts are permitted, and notice periods or expiry provisions are specified in the contract. If the term ends without renewal, the tenant generally must vacate; renewal, rent adjustments and terms are subject to agreement and statutory rules.

Rights and obligations: Termijnbewoners have the same basic rights and duties as other tenants under the lease, such as paying rent, keeping the property in good condition, and complying with house rules. However, their security of tenure is limited to the term of the contract, unless renewal is agreed.

See also: huurrecht, sociale huurwoning, tijdelijke huur.