The Netherlands has a rich history of squatting (kraken) and was home to the original property guardian concept (anti-kraak). This guide explains the Dutch approach to empty buildings and how it influenced the UK.
History of Kraken
The Netherlands had one of Europe's most vibrant squatting movements:
The Golden Age of Squatting (1960s-2010)
- 1960s-70s: Squatting emerged as response to housing shortages
- 1980s: Major squatting scenes in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht
- Legal tolerance: Buildings empty for 12+ months could be squatted with limited legal consequences
- Cultural impact: Squats became cultural centres, music venues, community spaces
Famous Dutch Squats
- Vrankrijk, Amsterdam: Legendary social centre
- ADM, Amsterdam: Large industrial squat
- De Grote Broek, Nijmegen: Long-running cultural squat
Criminalisation in 2010
On 1 October 2010, the Netherlands criminalized squatting:
- The "Wet Kraken en Leegstand" (Squatting and Vacancy Act) came into force
- Squatting became a criminal offence punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment
- Immediate eviction became possible
Why Criminalisation Happened
- Political shift to the right
- Property owner lobbying
- High-profile eviction conflicts
- Changing attitudes toward property rights
Anti-Kraak: Birth of Property Guardianship
The anti-kraak (anti-squat) model originated in the Netherlands:
How It Developed
- 1990s: Property owners sought ways to prevent squatting
- Solution: Place licensed occupants in empty buildings
- Legal basis: Occupied buildings couldn't be squatted under Dutch law
- Companies: Camelot (founded 1993) became the largest anti-kraak provider
The Anti-Kraak Model
- Guardians pay reduced fees (not rent)
- Licence agreement, not tenancy
- Short notice periods
- Protection through occupation
This model was later exported to the UK as property guardianship.
Current Situation (2026)
Today in the Netherlands:
- Squatting remains illegal
- Anti-kraak continues as major housing option
- Housing crisis has intensified
- Debates continue about empty buildings and housing rights
Vacancy Regulations
The 2010 law also included provisions against vacancy:
- Municipalities can require owners to report empty buildings
- Fines for prolonged vacancy
- Encouragement of temporary use
Lessons for the UK
The Dutch experience influenced UK developments:
- Section 144 LASPO followed similar criminalisation approach
- Property guardianship companies expanded from Netherlands to UK
- Debates about empty homes and housing rights echo Dutch discussions
UK Comparison
Learn about the UK's approach to squatting and property guardianship.
Section 144 LASPO Property Guardianship UK