Regulatory Alerts2026-04-13
Vulnerable Homeowner: Ensure Responsible Financing for Foundation Repairs
The AFM warns that 120,000 Dutch homeowners face foundation repairs costing €11 billion, with 25,000 unable to responsibly secure loans, and calls on the financial sector and stakeholders to collectively address the crisis. The regulator mandates four concrete actions: ensuring accessible, property-specific foundation risk data; standardizing risk disclosure during property transactions and mortgage assessments; exploring enhanced financing mechanisms with lenders and policymakers; and investigating supplementary measures to close the €3 billion funding gap. Postponing repairs risks severe cost escalation, property devaluation, and residual debt, making timely intervention and responsible financing essential to protect vulnerable homeowners.