Knowledge Centre
Find the meaning of various terms related to renting & letting here.
When renting a new home, there's more to consider than simply picking a property and moving in. Especially when you're searching for a rental for the first time, there are several things to keep in mind. If you're new to the world of renting, you'll likely come across terms you're not familiar with, such as delivery condition, rent protection, and the rent tribunal. These are terms you really should know when you're renting a place on your own, as it's likely you'll deal with one or more of these aspects.
Property guardianship / temporary use
What does this mean?
During your search for a new rental property, you might encounter various terms you’ve never heard before. One of those terms is ‘anti-squat’ or ‘caretaking’. But what exactly does anti-squat/caretaking mean, and what does it mean for you as a tenant? In this text, Huurzone provides you with all the information about anti-squat, so you are well-prepared if you encounter it during your search for a home.
What is anti-squat?
As the name suggests, anti-squat is a way to protect vacant buildings from squatters. These properties often await a new purpose, such as being let out, sold, or demolished. The owner typically hires an anti-squat agency to find temporary residents. These residents, also known as property guardians, live in the building to prevent it from being squatted. This is beneficial for the owner as it keeps the property protected, and it’s advantageous for the residents due to the relatively low costs. Anti-squat properties aren’t always residential homes; old school buildings and offices are also often offered as anti-squat.
The origin of anti-squat
Anti-squat arose as a measure to protect buildings from squatting, which is the unauthorized occupation of vacant buildings. Organized squatting actions in the Netherlands began in the 1960s. The squatting movement grew significantly, especially in the 1980s, with notorious events such as the squatter riots during Princess Beatrix's coronation in 1980. Since 1 October 2010, squatting is illegal, and offenders risk imprisonment or a fine. The introduction of the Squatting and Vacancy Act in 2010 promoted the use of anti-squat as a way to combat vacancy and protect buildings from being squatted.
The conditions of anti-squat
Living in an anti-squat arrangement is a unique form of residence and comes with certain conditions and limitations. As an anti-squatter, you have fewer rights than a regular tenant. You don’t receive a rental contract but a caretaking contract, meaning legal rental protection does not apply. This means a property can often be vacated with a short notice period of 2-4 weeks. This flexibility makes anti-squat particularly appealing to students and young people.
However, it’s important to know that anti-squat is usually not suitable for families with children or people with pets. Many anti-squat properties aren’t set up for long-term living or meeting specific family needs. Moreover, the uncertainty of a short notice period can pose a risk. This form of living is therefore primarily intended for those who want temporary and flexible housing.