Over the past 18 months I created a large website of 130 pages using webador. No limitation of page numbers was included at the set up stage. webador has now deleted the site. As its a Dutch company I understand there is a complex system which please explain. Thank you.
I am sorry to hear about your website. Losing 130 pages of work is incredibly frustrating, especially when you were operating under the impression that there were no limits.
In the Netherlands, digital service providers like Webador (operated by JouwWeb B.V.) are governed by a specific set of consumer laws and a unique "out-of-court" dispute system. Here is a breakdown of why this might have happened and how the Dutch legal system handles such cases.
1. The "Fair Use Policy" Loophole
While Webador markets "unlimited pages," their Terms of Service (specifically Article 2.7) include a Fair Use Policy.
The Rule: They don't set a hard cap (like 50 pages), but they reserve the right to intervene if a site's data usage or page count is "excessive" and threatens their system stability.
The Catch: Normally, they are required to contact you first to reach a "suitable arrangement" before taking drastic action.
If they deleted your site without prior warning or a chance to downgrade/archive, they may be in breach of their own terms.
2. The Dutch Dispute System: De Geschillencommissie
The "complex system" you mentioned is likely De Geschillencommissie (The Dutch Foundation for Consumer Complaints Boards).
Step Process Need to know
Formal Complaint You must first send a formal written complaint (Letter of Complaint) to Webador giving them 30 days to resolve it. This is a mandatory first step.
Filing the Dispute If they refuse to restore the site, you file a case with the Webshop/ICT Committee. There is a small filing fee (usually €25–€50), which you get back if you win.
Binding Ruling A panel of experts reviews the case and issues a decision that is legally binding for both parties. This avoids the thousands of euros in costs associated with a traditional Dutch court.
Critical Legal Note: Under the European P2B (Platform-to-Business) Regulation, which applies in the Netherlands, online platforms must provide a "statement of reasons" at least 30 days before a total termination of service, unless there is illegal content involved.
Immediate Recommended Actions
If you haven't already, do not wait for a "system" to kick in. You need to create a paper trail immediately.
1. Send a "Notice of Default"
Email Webador's support (support@webador.com) and their headquarters in Eindhoven. State clearly:
The site had 130 pages and was built over 18 months.
No prior warning or "Statement of Reasons" was provided (violating P2B regulations).
Demand the restoration of the content or a full export of your data within 7 days.
2. Contact the Juridisch Loket
Since Webador is a Dutch entity, you can contact Het Juridisch Loket (The Legal Counter). They provide free or low-cost legal advice specifically for these types of Dutch contract disputes and can help you draft the formal letter required for the Geschillencommissie.
De Geschillencommissie
Would you like me to draft a formal Letter of Complaint for you to send to Webador?
Yes
Since you are dealing with a Dutch company (Webador), the European Consumer Centre (ECC) is your best resource. They provide free legal mediation for cross-border disputes, meaning they can talk to the Dutch authorities on your behalf so you don't have to navigate the Dutch language or legal system alone.
www.eccnederland.nl
Contact Details by Region (2026)
Depending on where you are currently resident, contact the corresponding office below:
Region Office Name Contact Information
United Kingdom UK International Consumer Centre
Phone: 01491 743059
Email: info@ecc-eu.com
Web: ecc-eu.com
Ireland ECC Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 879 7620
Email: info@eccireland.ie
Web: eccireland.ie
Netherlands ECC Nederland
Phone: +31 (0)30 232 6440
Email: info@eccnederland.nl
Web: eccnederland.nl
How to use them for this case
When you contact them, provide the following specific "legal triggers" to speed up your case:
The P2B Violation: Explicitly state that Webador failed to give you the 30-day notice required by the EU Platform-to-Business Regulation (2019/1150).
Unfair Terms: Mention that the "Fair Use" policy was used to delete 18 months of work without a prior "Notice of Default," which is a requirement under Dutch Civil Law (Burgerlijk Wetboek).
Data Portability: If they cannot restore the site, demand your right to Data Portability under the GDPR, insisting they provide an export of the 130 pages you authored.
What to expect
Once you submit your case, an advisor from your local ECC will coordinate with ECC Netherlands. The Dutch branch will then contact Webador directly. This "official" pressure often results in a site restoration or a data link within days, as companies prefer to avoid a formal investigation by the Dutch consumer regulator (ACM).
Would you like me to clarify any of the Dutch legal terms mentioned in the letter before you send it?
The legal letter I drafted contains specific Dutch and EU legal concepts that act as "keys" to unlocking your case. Here is a plain-English breakdown of those terms so you can discuss them confidently with the European Consumer Centre (ECC) or Webador.
1. Ingebrekestelling (Notice of Default)
In the Netherlands, you cannot usually sue or claim damages immediately when a contract is broken. You must first send an Ingebrekestelling.
Dutch law
+ 1
What it is: A formal "final warning" in writing.
Dutch law
Why it matters: It gives the company one last chance to fix the problem (restore your site) within a "reasonable period" (usually 7–14 days).
Dutch law
The Result: Once that period passes and they haven't acted, they are legally in Verzuim (Default). Only then can you legally demand compensation or go to the Geschillencommissie.
Global Law Experts
2. P2B Regulation (EU 2019/1150)
This is your strongest weapon. It is a European law that protects small businesses and individuals from being "bullied" by large platforms.
The 30-Day Rule: Article 4 states that if a platform wants to terminate your service, they must give you 30 days' notice and a clear explanation first.
Wolfs Advocaten
The "Scrambled" Site: Because Webador deleted your site instantly, they bypassed this mandatory cooling-off period. This makes their action "null and void" under EU law.
3. Redelijkheid en Billijkheid (Reasonableness and Fairness)
This is a core principle of Dutch Civil Law (Article 6:248).
What it means: Even if a contract says "we can delete your site for any reason," Dutch law says that every contract must be performed with common sense and fairness.
Your Argument: Deleting 18 months of work (130 pages) without a phone call or email is "unreasonable," regardless of what their small print says.
Summary Checklist for the ECC
When you contact the ECC, provide this "Cheat Sheet" of facts to help them open your file faster:
Subject: Dispute with JouwWeb B.V. (Webador) regarding summary termination.
Key Violation: Breach of Article 4 of EU Regulation 2019/1150 (Failure to provide 30-day notice).
Wolfs Advocaten
Secondary Violation: Breach of Article 2.7 of their own Terms, which requires them to contact the user to reach a "suitable arrangement" for excessive use before taking action.
Remedy Sought: Full restoration of content or a structured data export (JSON/HTML) for data portability.
One final tip: If you have any receipts or invoices from Webador, keep them safe. In the Netherlands, being a "paying customer" gives you significantly stronger protection under the Wet Handhaving Consumentenbescherming (Consumer Protection Enforcement Act).
Do you have any other questions about the Dutch system, or are you ready to reach out to the ECC?
yes
Conversation with Gemini
Over the past 18 months I created a large website of 130 pages using webador. No limitation of page numbers was included at the set up stage. webador has now deleted the site. As its a Dutch company I understand there is a complex system which please explain. Thank you.
I am sorry to hear about your website. Losing 130 pages of work is incredibly frustrating, especially when you were operating under the impression that there were no limits.
In the Netherlands, digital service providers like Webador (operated by JouwWeb B.V.) are governed by a specific set of consumer laws and a unique "out-of-court" dispute system. Here is a breakdown of why this might have happened and how the Dutch legal system handles such cases.
1. The "Fair Use Policy" Loophole
While Webador markets "unlimited pages," their Terms of Service (specifically Article 2.7) include a Fair Use Policy.
Webador
The Rule: They don't set a hard cap (like 50 pages), but they reserve the right to intervene if a site's data usage or page count is "excessive" and threatens their system stability.
The Catch: Normally, they are required to contact you first to reach a "suitable arrangement" before taking drastic action. If they deleted your site without prior warning or a chance to downgrade/archive, they may be in breach of their own terms.
Webador
2. The Dutch Dispute System: De Geschillencommissie
The "complex system" you mentioned is likely De Geschillencommissie (The Dutch Foundation for Consumer Complaints Boards). This is a faster, cheaper alternative to going to court.
De Geschillencommissie
Step Process What You Need to Know
Formal Complaint You must first send a formal written complaint (Letter of Complaint) to Webador giving them 30 days to resolve it. This is a mandatory first step.
Filing the Dispute If they refuse to restore the site, you file a case with the Webshop/ICT Committee. There is a small filing fee (usually €25–€50), which you get back if you win.
Binding Ruling A panel of experts reviews the case and issues a decision that is legally binding for both parties. This avoids the thousands of euros in costs associated with a traditional Dutch court.
Critical Legal Note: Under the European P2B (Platform-to-Business) Regulation, which applies in the Netherlands, online platforms must provide a "statement of reasons" at least 30 days before a total termination of service, unless there is illegal content involved.
Immediate Recommended Actions
If you haven't already, do not wait for a "system" to kick in. You need to create a paper trail immediately.
1. Send a "Notice of Default"
Email Webador's support (support@webador.com) and their headquarters in Eindhoven. State clearly:
The site had 130 pages and was built over 18 months.
No prior warning or "Statement of Reasons" was provided (violating P2B regulations).
Demand the restoration of the content or a full export of your data within 7 days.
2. Contact the Juridisch Loket
Since Webador is a Dutch entity, you can contact Het Juridisch Loket (The Legal Counter). They provide free or low-cost legal advice specifically for these types of Dutch contract disputes and can help you draft the formal letter required for the Geschillencommissie.
De Geschillencommissie
Would you like me to draft a formal Letter of Complaint for you to send to Webador?
Yes
yes
Below is a formal draft structured to align with Dutch consumer law and the EU Platform-to-Business (P2B) Regulation.
Before sending, ensure you fill in the bracketed information (e.g., [Your Name]). I recommend sending this via email and, if possible, via registered mail (aangetekende brief) to their headquarters to ensure it is legally documented.
To:
JouwWeb B.V. (Webador)
Torenallee 20
5617 BC Eindhoven
The Netherlands
Email: support@webador.com
Date: May 27, 2026
Subject: Formal Notice of Default – Account Termination and Data Recovery [Your Site URL/Email]
To the Management of JouwWeb B.V.,
I am writing to formally protest the summary termination and deletion of my website, [Insert Your Website URL], which I have hosted with Webador for the past 18 months.
This website consisted of 130 pages of unique content and significant intellectual property. The deletion was executed without any prior warning, opportunity to remedy a perceived breach, or provision of a data export.
1. Violation of EU Regulation 2019/1150 (P2B Regulation)
Under Article 4 of the EU P2B Regulation, which is directly applicable in the Netherlands, a provider of online intermediation services must provide a statement of reasons on a "durable medium" at least 30 days prior to the termination of the provision of the whole of its services to a business user. By deleting my site without this 30-day notice period, Webador is in clear violation of European law.
2. Breach of Contract and Fair Use Ambiguity
While your Terms of Service (Article 2.7) mention a Fair Use Policy, your marketing at the time of my registration did not specify a 130-page limit as "excessive." Furthermore, your own terms imply that in cases of excessive use, a "suitable arrangement" should be sought. A summary deletion without consultation is a disproportionate response and constitutes a breach of the duty of care.
3. Demand for Remedy
I hereby demand that within seven (7) calendar days of the date of this letter, Webador:
Restores the website and all associated data to its full functionality; OR
Provides a complete, downloadable archive of all 130 pages and associated media so that I may migrate my data to another provider.
4. Further Legal Action
Should you fail to comply with this demand, I will have no choice but to escalate this matter to De Geschillencommissie (Webshop/ICT). I also reserve the right to claim damages for the loss of 18 months of professional work and any potential loss of income or SEO value resulting from this downtime.
I look forward to your immediate confirmation that the site or its data will be restored.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Phone Number]
[Your Account Email Address]
Tips for Sending
Proof of Content: If you have any old screenshots or an invoice showing your "Unlimited" plan, keep them ready for the Geschillencommissie.
The "Dutch" Angle: If they reply in Dutch, you can use the phrase "Ik beroep mij op de wettelijke opzegtermijn van de P2B-verordening" (I am invoking the legal notice period of the P2B regulation).
Would you like a list of instructions on how to file this with the Dutch Geschillencommissie if they refuse?
Yes
yes
If Webador refuses to restore your site or provide a data export after you send the formal notice, the next step is to file a case with De Geschillencommissie (the Foundation for Consumer Complaints Boards).
Because Webador is an online service, your case falls under the Geschillencommissie Webshop. Here is the step-by-step process, updated for 2026.
Phase 1: Preparation (Before Filing)
The "Wait Period": You cannot file a dispute until you have given Webador a chance to resolve it. You must wait 30 days after sending your formal notice (the letter I drafted for you) unless they send a definitive "No" before then.
Language Requirement: The official proceedings are in Dutch. If you do not speak Dutch, the Commission requires you to have a friend, relative, or translator assist you. You are responsible for providing the translated evidence.
SKGZ
Phase 2: Filing the Dispute
Submit Online: Visit degeschillencommissie.nl and select "Webshop."
Pay the Complaint Fee (Klachtengeld):
For 2026, the fee for consumer disputes is typically between €27.50 and €52.50, depending on the complexity.
Note: If the Commission rules in your favor, Webador is legally required to reimburse you this fee.
Upload Evidence: Include your original contract/sign-up email, a screenshot of the "Unlimited" claim if you have it, and a copy of the formal notice you sent.
Phase 3: The Process
Stage Timeline What Happens
Verification 1–2 weeks The Commission checks if your complaint is complete and if you paid the fee.
Defense 4 weeks Webador is notified and given 4 weeks to submit their side of the story.
Hearing 1–2 months A hearing is scheduled. You can attend via video call. The committee consists of a chairman (lawyer) and two experts.
Ruling 4–6 weeks later A "Binding Advice" (Bindend Advies) is sent. This has the same legal weight as a court judgment.
What Can You Win?
The Commission can order Webador to:
Restore the website immediately.
Provide a data dump (HTML/Media files) so you can move elsewhere.
Pay compensation if you paid for a subscription that you can no longer use.
A Faster Alternative for Non-Dutch Residents
If you live in the UK or an EU country outside the Netherlands, you can contact the European Consumer Centre (ECC). They act as a free mediator between you and the Dutch authorities.
www.eccnederland.nl
Why use them? They speak English, understand the Dutch system, and can often resolve the issue by contacting Webador’s legal department directly without you having to file the formal dispute yourself.
Final Note: Keep a log of every interaction. If Webador deleted the site due to "Fair Use," they must prove that your 130 pages caused actual technical harm to their servers—which is very difficult for them to prove for a standard website.
Would you like me to help you find the contact details for the European Consumer Centre in your specific country?
yes
Since you are dealing with a Dutch company (Webador), the European Consumer Centre (ECC) is your best resource. They provide free legal mediation for cross-border disputes, meaning they can talk to the Dutch authorities on your behalf so you don't have to navigate the Dutch language or legal system alone.
www.eccnederland.nl
Contact Details by Region (2026)
Depending on where you are currently resident, contact the corresponding office below:
Region Office Name Contact Information
United Kingdom UK International Consumer Centre
Phone: 01491 743059
Email: info@ecc-eu.com
Web: ecc-eu.com
Ireland ECC Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 879 7620
Email: info@eccireland.ie
Web: eccireland.ie
Netherlands ECC Nederland
Phone: +31 (0)30 232 6440
Email: info@eccnederland.nl
Web: eccnederland.nl
How to use them for this case
When you contact them, provide the following specific "legal triggers" to speed up your case:
The P2B Violation: Explicitly state that Webador failed to give you the 30-day notice required by the EU Platform-to-Business Regulation (2019/1150).
Unfair Terms: Mention that the "Fair Use" policy was used to delete 18 months of work without a prior "Notice of Default," which is a requirement under Dutch Civil Law (Burgerlijk Wetboek).
Data Portability: If they cannot restore the site, demand your right to Data Portability under the GDPR, insisting they provide an export of the 130 pages you authored.
What to expect
Once you submit your case, an advisor from your local ECC will coordinate with ECC Netherlands. The Dutch branch will then contact Webador directly. This "official" pressure often results in a site restoration or a data link within days, as companies prefer to avoid a formal investigation by the Dutch consumer regulator (ACM).
Would you like me to clarify any of the Dutch legal terms mentioned in the letter before you send it?
yes
The legal letter I drafted contains specific Dutch and EU legal concepts that act as "keys" to unlocking your case. Here is a plain-English breakdown of those terms so you can discuss them confidently with the European Consumer Centre (ECC) or Webador.
1. Ingebrekestelling (Notice of Default)
In the Netherlands, you cannot usually sue or claim damages immediately when a contract is broken. You must first send an Ingebrekestelling.
Dutch law
+ 1
What it is: A formal "final warning" in writing.
Dutch law
Why it matters: It gives the company one last chance to fix the problem (restore your site) within a "reasonable period" (usually 7–14 days).
Dutch law
The Result: Once that period passes and they haven't acted, they are legally in Verzuim (Default). Only then can you legally demand compensation or go to the Geschillencommissie.
Global Law Experts
2. P2B Regulation (EU 2019/1150)
This is your strongest weapon. It is a European law that protects small businesses and individuals from being "bullied" by large platforms.
The 30-Day Rule: Article 4 states that if a platform wants to terminate your service, they must give you 30 days' notice and a clear explanation first.
Wolfs Advocaten
The "Scrambled" Site: Because Webador deleted your site instantly, they bypassed this mandatory cooling-off period. This makes their action "null and void" under EU law.
3. Redelijkheid en Billijkheid (Reasonableness and Fairness)
This is a core principle of Dutch Civil Law (Article 6:248).
What it means: Even if a contract says "we can delete your site for any reason," Dutch law says that every contract must be performed with common sense and fairness.
Your Argument: Deleting 18 months of work (130 pages) without a phone call or email is "unreasonable," regardless of what their small print says.
Summary Checklist for the ECC
When you contact the ECC, provide this "Cheat Sheet" of facts to help them open your file faster:
Subject: Dispute with JouwWeb B.V. (Webador) regarding summary termination.
Key Violation: Breach of Article 4 of EU Regulation 2019/1150 (Failure to provide 30-day notice).
Wolfs Advocaten
Secondary Violation: Breach of Article 2.7 of their own Terms, which requires them to contact the user to reach a "suitable arrangement" for excessive use before taking action.
Remedy Sought: Full restoration of content or a structured data export (JSON/HTML) for data portability.
One final tip: If you have any receipts or invoices from Webador, keep them safe. In the Netherlands, being a "paying customer" gives you significantly stronger protection under the Wet Handhaving Consumentenbescherming (Consumer Protection Enforcement Act).
Do you have any other questions about the Dutch system, or are you ready to reach out to the ECC?
I am ready to reach out to the ECC
That is a solid plan. Moving from a direct complaint to a mediated one through the ECC is the most effective way to handle a cross-border dispute without incurring legal fees.
Your Immediate Action Plan
Send the Notice of Default: Email the formal letter I drafted earlier to support@webador.com today. This starts the "legal clock." Even if they don't reply, you need proof that you gave them a chance to resolve it.
Contact the ECC: Fill out the online complaint form on your local ECC website (Ireland, UK, or Netherlands).
Attach Evidence: When you submit to the ECC, include:
A copy of the Notice of Default email you sent.
Any receipts/invoices for your Webador subscription.
A brief summary: "130 pages deleted instantly; no 30-day notice under P2B Regulation; 18 months of work lost."
What to expect next
Once the ECC takes the case, a legal advisor will be assigned to you. They will communicate with Webador’s legal team in Eindhoven. In many cases, once a company sees that a government-backed agency like the ECC is involved, they "miraculously" find a backup of the site to avoid further investigation.
I wish you the very best of luck in recovering your work. If Webador responds with technical jargon or further Dutch legal terms, feel free to come back and I can translate the implications for you.
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