Can a no-assignment clause stop a transfer of a claim in the Netherlands?

Only if it has proprietary effect under BW 3:83(2); a merely contractual ban breaches the contract but may still pass title unless drafted to be goederenrechtelijk.

What is contract takeover?

It is transferring an entire contractual position (rights and obligations) to a third party, which under BW 6:159 needs the other party's cooperation.

Does a change of control trigger an assignment restriction?

Only if the clause includes a change-of-control provision. Without it, a share acquisition that leaves the legal entity unchanged typically does not trigger an assignment restriction even if ownership changes entirely.

Can consent to assignment be withheld unreasonably?

If the clause says consent "shall not be unreasonably withheld", refusal without good reason may itself be a breach. Courts assess reasonableness based on the legitimate interests of the consenting party.

Do obligations transfer automatically when rights are assigned?

No. Assignment transfers only rights; obligations remain with the original party unless the contract expressly releases them. A full transfer of position requires contract takeover under BW 6:159.

Assignment Clause

Controls whether and how a party may transfer its rights or obligations under the contract to a third party.

What it is

An assignment clause states whether a party may transfer its contractual rights (assignment / cessie) or its whole position (contract takeover) to another, and on what conditions, typically the other party's consent. Under Dutch law, assignment of claims follows BW 3:94 and contract takeover requires BW 6:159 cooperation.

Why it matters

A party usually wants to know and approve who it is dealing with. Restricting assignment prevents the contract ending up with an unwanted or less creditworthy counterparty, while a no-assignment clause can even make a purported transfer ineffective against the debtor.

How to apply it

State whether assignment is prohibited, allowed with consent, or free.
Distinguish assignment of rights (cessie) from full contract takeover.
Allow assignment to group companies or on a sale of business if useful.
For a binding no-assignment effect on claims, use the BW 3:83(2) goederenrechtelijke wording.

Negotiation tips

• Seek a carve-out so you can freely assign to affiliates or on a M&A exit.
• Make consent "not to be unreasonably withheld" to avoid a hard veto.

Common pitfalls

• Assuming a contractual ban automatically blocks a transfer of claims; the wording must be goederenrechtelijk.
• Confusing assignment of rights with delegation of obligations, which needs the other party's cooperation.

Legal references

Unless marked otherwise, references are to Dutch law (Burgerlijk Wetboek, the Dutch Civil Code); EU instruments such as the GDPR apply across the EU. This is general information, not legal advice. Other jurisdictions treat these concepts differently. Verify the current text and your situation with a qualified lawyer.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this clause.