Family does not have to leave home despite thousands of euros in rent arrears

A family renting a home in Diemen has been permitted to remain in their residence despite accumulating over 8,200 euros in rent arrears. Although the landlord sought an eviction through the courts due to the significant debt, the presiding judge ruled that the welfare of the couple's two minor children, aged 7 and 12, takes precedence over the owner's financial interests. The father attributed the mounting debt to a combination of business struggles following the pandemic, tax liabilities, and the loss of social benefits.

During the proceedings, the father expressed his intention to liquidate his company and enter into professional financial management to address the outstanding payments. The court noted that, under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the children's need for stable housing is a primary consideration, especially since there is no alternative accommodation available for them. Consequently, the request for immediate eviction was denied, allowing the family to stay as they work toward a structured repayment plan.