Netherlands to expand family housing options on private land from 2027

Starting January 1, 2027, new regulations in the Netherlands will expand the possibilities for building family and caregiver homes on private property. These changes follow the Wet versterking regie volkshuisvesting, which became largely effective on July 1, 2026.

Under the new rules, residents will be able to build permit-free housing for family members or caregivers on their own land. While current rules allow for caregiver homes—defined as intensive, non-professional support provided by a social relation—the new legislation introduces ‘family homes.’ These are specifically intended for first-degree relatives, such as parents and children, or in certain foster care situations.