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The foundation label is mandatory from June 2021

Navigating the complexities of home buying in the Netherlands just got more transparent with the introduction of mandatory foundation labels in valuation reports. As 12.5% of homes struggle with costly foundation issues, this crucial update aims to equip homebuyers with essential insights into potential risks, safeguarding them from unexpected financial burdens and enhancing their investment confidence.

Starting in June 2021, the foundation label will become a mandatory part of a valuation report. A significant number of homes in the Netherlands have foundation problems. These problems are revealed during a building inspection , but not every homebuyer has this inspection performed. The costs of foundation repair are substantial. Therefore, it's always important to have clarity about the condition of the foundation before purchasing a home. The foundation label should provide this clarity.

Foundation problems in more than 1 in 10 homes

The KCAF, the Knowledge Center for Foundation Problems, has announced that every valuation report prepared after June 1, 2021, must include a foundation label. This label primarily indicates whether there is currently a problem with the home 's foundation. If there is an increased risk of foundation problems in the future, the foundation label will also indicate this. Foundation problems are often overlooked when purchasing a home, which can leave the new owner with high, unexpected costs. A staggering 12.5 percent of homes in the Netherlands have foundation problems.

Why are there so many bad foundations in our country?

A home's foundation deteriorates over time, necessitating foundation repairs. In some cases, it can take a very long time before such work is necessary. Concrete foundations retain their optimal strength for a very long time. In the Netherlands, we also have homes with wooden foundations, and these foundations have suffered significant declines in quality, especially in recent years. Due to the very dry and hot summers, the foundation piles have dried out, which has an unfortunate consequence. Rot easily develops, ultimately causing subsidence.

How is the foundation label determined?

The KCAF has developed a special model to determine the correct foundation label. This model serves as the basis for determining the foundation label. This model considers factors such as the foundation type (wood or concrete), the soil type, and the groundwater level. Satellite images are also incorporated into the model.

Foundation label comparable to energy label

Homeowners are generally familiar with energy labels. A good energy label is given the letter A. The further down the letter of the energy label the worse the energy label is. Energy label G is the worst. This method is also used for the foundation label. Foundation label A indicates no increased risk of foundation problems, while label E indicates urgent action is required.

A building inspection will tell you more

During a building inspection, the foundation itself isn't examined. However, this inspection does provide you with more information. Homekeur is happy to perform the building inspection for you. If we anticipate problems with the foundation, we will state in the building inspection report that we recommend a foundation inspection. You can schedule an appointment online.

Easily request an energy label for your home

The cost of an energy label (up to 190 m²) is only €349 including VAT. A certified energy advisor will visit you, inspect the property, and officially register the energy label in EP-online. If the property is larger than 190 m², we charge €0.65 per additional square meter. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and, if desired, can schedule an appointment with a certified advisor right away!

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