Without firm action and adequate funding, a nationwide foundation crisis is looming. This is what the Foundation Coalition, which has been advocating for government direction and decisiveness since 2021, warns. Currently, about 100,000 buildings in the Netherlands suffer from serious foundation problems. This number is expected to rise to over 400,000 in the next decade. Repair per home costs on average between €60,000 and €120,000.
The Foundation Coalition, consisting of representatives from homeowners, banks, insurers, builders and knowledge institutions, is calling on politicians in a pamphlet to recognize the urgency and ensure an appropriate government budget so that the costs can be shared fairly.
Billions problem cannot be solved with millions
The urgency of the problem is confirmed in the advisory report The Elephant Under the House of Representatives, recently presented to the House of Representatives. This report, commissioned by the Cabinet and drawn up by an advisory group of top officials, argues, in line with an earlier advisory by the Council for the Environment and Infrastructure (Rli), for a government investment of about 1 billion euros per year, over 10 to 12 years.
This recommendation contrasts sharply with the current political commitment of €76 million spread over four years. Both top officials and the Rli warn: without national direction, a second 'Groningen' threatens.
In a response to the House of Representatives on the top officials' report, the Cabinet recognizes the seriousness of the situation and announces further steps toward a national approach. The Foundation Coalition welcomes this development, but emphasizes that a concrete plan of action and central direction is needed in the short term, including structural funding. A billion dollar problem cannot be solved with a few tens of millions.
Government policy affecting foundation problems
Residential foundation damage is partly the result of government policies, such as managing groundwater levels. Therefore, it makes sense not only for the government to take the reigns, but also to contribute financially to the fair distribution of costs. Homeowners should not pay for repair costs alone.
A fundamental, long-term approach is necessary: with national direction, financial support for homeowners, preventive measures and accessible information. Only then can a new foundation crisis be prevented.
