Netherlands moves to ease rules for homeowners renting out spare rooms

Housing Minister Elanor Boekholt-O'Sullivan has submitted legislation to the Tweede Kamer, the lower house of Dutch parliament, that would allow homeowners renting out a room in their own home to offer temporary tenancy agreements of up to five years, including a nine-month probationary period. The proposal is intended to encourage more homeowners to rent out spare rooms.

The proposal would also make it easier to end a lodging arrangement. Homeowners could terminate the tenancy if they sell their home or pass away, while people renting a home themselves and subletting a room would be able to end the agreement if they move to another property.

Current rules already allow temporary rental agreements for certain groups, including students moving from another municipality. However, Housing Minister Elanor Boekholt-O'Sullivan said some homeowners choose to end tenancies as soon as the existing nine-month probationary period expires because they fear becoming locked into an indefinite contract.

According to the Ministry of Housing, "many would actually be willing to accommodate a tenant for a longer period" if more flexible rules were available. According to ministry research, roughly one-third of Dutch households have a suitable empty room, and 8% are actively considering becoming live-in landlords (hospita's).

The government estimates this legislative shift has the potential to unlock up to 100,000 extra living spaces across the country without building new properties.

The law applies exclusively to hospitaverhuur (lodging) arrangements, where the landlord and tenant share essential home infrastructure like a kitchen, bathroom, or main entrance. It does not apply to standalone rental properties or independent apartments.

The proposed reform was initiated under earlier governments, and the new rules are expected to come into force at the start of next year.