Over half in the Netherlands impacted by housing shortage stress

Stress caused by the housing shortage has affected 52 percent of Netherlands residents, either directly or with someone in their immediate environment. Over 40 percent of people have faced tensions caused by temporary housing situations, according to a recent ING study among people living at home who plan to buy a home within two years.

This study “shows how widespread housing stress is,” ING researcher Wim Flikweert said. “There is often attention for those looking for a home, but it also impacts the people you live with. Parents, for example, who suddenly have to adjust because children are moving back home after a relationship breakup.”

Two in five people know someone who suddenly had to leave their home and find somewhere else to live. 14 percent of respondents have had to live with someone else for a while, and 6 percent have had to temporarily offer accommodation to a sibling, an adult child, or a friend. A large majority can imagine it happening to them, especially in the event of a divorce or sudden financial problems.

Over 40 percent said that a temporary housing situation has led to tensions due to a lack of privacy, different daily routines, higher energy consumption, and help with the housework. Of those who live with someone else or have taken someone in, 72 percent are postponing life decisions, such as having children. Three in ten said they were looking forward to having their homes to themselves again.

To reduce housing stress, the Netherlands has to both build more homes and make better use of existing living space. “More extensive options for room rentals, where you rent out part of your home, would be especially helpful,” Flikweert said.

“Measures on the demand side, like starter schemes, are well-intentioned, but they don’t address the shortage.”