Instruction Rule for Occupancy of Recreational Homes to the House of Representatives

It is known that about 60,000 people live permanently in a recreational home, while this is usually not allowed. The actual number of permanent residents of holiday homes is higher.

“With this instruction rule, I provide residents with certainty,” says Minister Mona Keijzer. “Many residents of recreational homes live in uncertainty because permanent occupancy is formally not allowed, but moving due to the housing crisis is not an option. With this instruction rule, we legalize occupancy for a period of ten years, so that people do not have to fear being evicted in times of housing shortage.”

The instruction rule is explicitly intended for people who have no alternative to their current living situation. As soon as there are enough affordable homes again, the need for this measure will cease. Therefore, the instruction rule applies for 10 years. After 8 years, the instruction rule will be evaluated.

Municipalities are tasked via the instruction rule to allow existing cases of occupancy of recreational homes in the environmental plan. The instruction rule only applies to people who have lived uninterrupted in a recreational home since May 16, 2024 (presentation of the cabinets main lines agreement) or longer and do not own another home. Registration at the address or other documents can be used to demonstrate permanent occupancy. Furthermore, the home must meet certain minimum safety and health requirements that also apply to regular homes.

If recreational homes are legally occupied permanently, residents may be entitled to housing benefit in some cases. The Ministry of VRO will investigate in the coming time together with the Benefits Agency what this means for implementation and costs.