Can a fixed-term contract always be terminated early for cause?

Generally yes, but a serious breach is required. Under BW 6:265, dissolution requires a shortfall that justifies it, and the party in breach must usually first be in default following a written notice.

What is a typical early-termination fee?

It varies by sector and contract, but it often equals the fees due for the remaining term or a fixed multiple of monthly fees. Some contracts use a declining formula: higher fees early, lower fees nearer the end.

Is "termination for convenience" the same as early termination?

Termination for convenience is one type of early termination where no breach is required. It is only available if the contract expressly grants it, usually subject to a fee or a notice period.

What rights does the other party have if I terminate early without grounds?

The counterparty can claim damages for the loss caused by the early exit, which typically includes the value of the remaining contract term minus any savings. It may also seek specific performance or injunctive relief in some cases.

Does Dutch law allow early termination of open-ended contracts without cause?

Contracts for an indefinite period are generally terminable by notice. Fixed-term contracts are not, unless the contract says so. For some contract types (such as employment or agency agreements) specific statutory rules apply.

Early termination

Ending a fixed-term contract before its agreed end date, typically only on grounds the contract allows.

Definición

Early termination is the premature ending of a fixed-term agreement before its natural expiry. Unless the contract expressly allows interim cancellation, a fixed-term contract cannot simply be cancelled; a party that walks away early risks liability for breach. Contracts therefore commonly specify the permitted grounds (for cause, for convenience, change of control) and any compensation owed.

Ejemplo

A three-year lease allowing early termination on six months' notice lets the tenant exit after restructuring.

Por qué es un riesgo para la empresa

Early termination without a contractual basis exposes a business to breach-of-contract claims and damages equal to the counterparty's loss of the remaining term. Even where an exit is contractually permitted, an early-termination fee can run to months of remaining fees. Businesses that do not track which contracts are fixed-term versus rolling risk triggering costly exits unintentionally.

Cómo gestionarlo

Before signing a fixed-term contract, confirm whether it includes an early-termination right and under what conditions.
Record the contract type (fixed-term or rolling) and any early-exit triggers in your contract repository.
Calculate the potential early-termination fee before invoking the right, to compare it against the cost of staying.
Serve any required notices exactly as the contract prescribes: wrong form or recipient can invalidate the termination.
Document the grounds for termination and keep evidence, especially if terminating for cause.

Referencias legales

BW 6:265 Dutch Civil Code: rescission for breach Derecho neerlandés

Salvo indicación en contrario, las referencias remiten al derecho neerlandés (Burgerlijk Wetboek, el Código Civil neerlandés); los instrumentos de la UE como el RGPD se aplican en toda la UE. Se trata de información general, no de asesoramiento legal. Otras jurisdicciones tratan estos conceptos de forma distinta. Verifique el texto vigente y su situación con un abogado cualificado.

Preguntas frecuentes

Preguntas comunes sobre este término.