Anti-squatting in the Netherlands (antikraak)
By Manja van KesterenUpdated on Jan 27, 2026
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Squatting is illegal in the Netherlands and has been a punishable offence since October 1, 2010. However, anti-squatting (or antikraak) is allowed. Anti-squatting protects empty buildings from (illegal) squatting and vandalism. By putting occupants in these buildings, they retain their value.
Anti-squatting can be a cheap and adventurous way to rent in the Netherlands. Most anti-squat buildings are not “normal” houses or apartments, but rather empty offices, schools, nursing homes, libraries and so on. Here's what you need to know about anti-squatting.
What is anti-squatting (antikraak) in the Netherlands?
As the name suggests, anti-squatting is essentially the legal form of squatting in the Netherlands. You stay in a building that would otherwise have been vacant, and rent it out for a cheap price until the property is demolished or repurposed.
This means that anti-squatting is always temporary. The empty building you are staying in will either be sold to another party or torn down. This can take years, but if you are unlucky, just a few months or less. Flexibility is key.
Anti-squatting is therefore an affordable option for renting if you are:
- Studying in the Netherlands
- On a tight budget
- Here for just a few months
How does it work?
Anti-squatting is pretty simple, really. You register with an anti-squatting agency to be able to apply for properties that they are putting up for rent. You may need to pay a fee to sign up.
To be able to register, you'll need to fulfil a few conditions. Most agencies will only consider your application if you:
Note that some agencies work with a referral system. This means they will only consider you as a tenant if one of their current users introduces you.
Once you're in a property, you are bound by a set of rules and conditions that you must keep to in order to be able to stay. This includes keeping the building neat and clean at all times, especially since potential buyers might come by. Usually, the agency will also drop by to check if you are compliant with their rules. They will usually give notice, but on occasion, they may show up unannounced.
When the time comes for the building to be repurposed or demolished, you will be given notice that you need to vacate. Usually the minimum notice period is 28 days, but in certain circumstances it can be as little as 14 days, so again flexibility is key here.
Pros of anti-squatting
There are several pros to anti-squatting:
- It's cheaper than regular renting; technically you're only covering the bills, so your monthly fees will be low.
- It's flexible: you won't get tied into a long rental contract, and can terminate with 14 days' notice.
- It helps keep neighbourhoods with derelict buildings in good condition and discourages crime.
Cons of anti-squatting
However, there are some notable cons:
- Demand exceeds supply: It's not any different to the rental market, really, in that you'll probably be put on a waiting list for an antikraak rental.
- It's not super secure, and you could be asked to move out with as little as 14-28 days' notice.
- You don't enjoy the same rights as a regular tenant, which puts you in a more precarious position.
- The maximum rental period is five years (but it's rare to stay somewhere that long), so it's not suitable if you're looking for a long-term home.
- Facilities can sometimes be basic - you should check before you move in to know exactly what to expect.
- You have to follow set rules, such as not having overnight visitors, avoiding structural changes, informing the agency if you go on holiday, and not having parties.
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