Temporarily letting your home? This is how the diplomatic clause works (2025 update)
Yes, temporary letting is allowed; with the diplomatic clause you agree on a fixed rental period and are guaranteed to get your property back when you return home.
Why choose temporary letting?
Tom and Esmée had dreamed about it for years: taking a gap year to travel the world! Stepping away from busy daily life, broadening their horizons and improving their English along the way. But what about their apartment on the Herenweg? Naturally, they didn’t want it to sit empty — it would have been a waste of space and money, with fixed costs still running. That’s why they decided to let their property temporarily.
A trusted letting agent
With all the recent changes in legislation, they couldn’t see the wood for the trees — so they decided to get in touch with Interhouse. We were soon able to visit the apartment for an introduction. It looked great: well maintained and in an excellent location. A place like this was definitely in demand!
Diplomatic clause in a nutshell
With a “temporary letting agreement” (diplomatic clause), you ensure that the tenant leaves when as you return. You agree on a fixed rental period (in this case, 12 months). You must give written notice at least three months before the end date; earlier termination is not possible. You can read the official explanation about temporary letting with a diplomatic clause on the Dutch government’s website. This way, you avoid a temporary rental turning into a permanent one — exactly why Tom and Esmée chose this solution.
Extra peace of mind
In our search for the right tenant, we met Patrick. Patrick was from Ireland and had been sent to the Netherlands for work to help launch a project — which was expected to last around 9–12 months. For Patrick, the fixed rental period was no problem at all. And for Tom and Esmée, this offered extra peace of mind, knowing that Patrick would eventually return to his family in Ireland.
Timely notice of termination
After a successful meeting with Patrick, a thorough screening and signing the tenancy agreement, we advised Tom and Esmée to leave the property management in our hands as well. This allowed them to fully focus on their adventure while we maintained contact with the tenant during their absence.
Aside from our little “rescue mission” when Patrick accidentally locked himself out, we also handled the timely notice of termination. In Tom and Esmée’s case, the notice period was three calendar months and had to be given in writing, including the grounds for termination and reference to the agreed fixed rental period in the tenancy agreement.
Welcome home!
We carried out a final inspection together with Patrick, arranged professional cleaning and handed the keys back to Tom and Esmée. They loved coming home after such an amazing trip.
Are you also planning to travel or temporarily relocate abroad for work? A temporary letting agreement with a diplomatic clause allows you to let your property temporarily and end the tenancy when you return. Always get professional help to ensure all requirements are met. That way, you can enjoy your adventure and return home with complete peace of mind.
