What is unauthorised use of the residence?
This means that a home is being occupied without valid permission or in violation of the rules of the rental contract or zoning plan. Housing fraud is a more serious form of unauthorised use of the residence and often involves deliberate deception regarding the use of the property.
Reporting housing fraud unauthorised use of the residence is essential as it contributes to a fair distribution of housing and helps maintain a safe living environment for everyone.
Below, you’ll find examples unauthorised use of the residence, how to recognize it, and the actions taken when it is identified. Together, we can combat housing fraud and promote a fair living environment. Your report will always be handled confidentially.
How do you recognize unauthorised use of the residence?
Do you suspect unauthorised use of the residence or housing fraud in your area?
Keep an eye out for the following signs:
• A strange smell, such as a strong marijuana odor or an anise-like/chemical scent
• Buzzing and other unusual noises
• Warm walls
• Overflowing mailboxes
• No visible activity, with curtains always closed
• Different people entering and leaving the property, even at night
• Visitors leaving after only a few minutes
• Moving activities at unusual times
Examples of unauthorised use of the residence
- If a residence is made available to another person with or without payment, without the permission of DUWO,
- Illegal activities such as the following are prohibited:
- Prostitution
- Cultivation of hemp, possession or production of drugs (including hemp, laughing gas, ecstasy, and designer drugs) or other drug- related activities that are prohibited under the Opium Act
- Possession or manufacture of weapons and/or ammunition or other actions prohibited under the Weapons and Ammunition Act
- Any other use contrary to the designated purpose of residential accommodation - Vacancy; the residence must be your primary residence
- Forgery of proof that you are registered with the educational institution
- Vacation rental of the residence
- Squatting in a rental property
- Using or making the residence available for business activities.
The importance of registration in the Personal Records Database (BRP)
As a tenant, you are required to have your primary residence in the rented property.
Therefore, it is important that you register in the Personal Records Database (BRP in Dutch) with the municipality from the starting date of your rental agreement. This is not only a legal requirement but also ensures your eligibility for financial support from the government, such as housing allowance and student grants.
The dangers and consequences of unauthorised use of the residence
Unauthorised use of the residence or housing fraud is prohibited in the Netherlands and carries serious risks. It can lead to nuisance and social insecurity for nearby residents and the surrounding area. Additionally, cannabis- and drug-related activities can pose fire hazards. Illegal human trafficking and prostitution are also severe risks associated with housing fraud.
As soon as there are suspicions of housing fraud, we initiate an investigation in cooperation with relevant authorities, such as the police and the municipality. This investigation involves gathering information about the suspected housing fraud and determining the occurrence and severity of the fraud.
After a thorough evaluation and confirmation of housing fraud, the rental agreement will be terminated with immediate effect. This means that the tenant must vacate the property, and the rights and obligations under the rental agreement will no longer apply.
If necessary, we will take legal action, such as initiating legal proceedings. The costs thereof may be recovered from the tenant, to the extent determined by the court.
As a result of the housing fraud, the tenant will receive a negative statement from us as the landlord. A landlord statement contains information about, among other things, the rental history. This statement can have serious consequences for future rental or purchase agreements, as other landlords or real estate agents may request this information.
In addition to the termination of the rental agreement and any legal consequences, the tenant may be fined for violating the terms of the agreement.
DUWO can also claim damages from the tenant. In the case of illegal subletting, DUWO can also claim the benefits that the tenant gained from the illegal rental.
Report unauthorised use of the residence (anonymously)
Do you suspect unauthorised use of the residence or housing fraud? You can report it via:
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The contact form on our website or app
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By phone
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By visiting our office
Reports of unauthorised use of the residence or housing fraud are treated confidentially and can be submitted anonymously. We appreciate it if we can contact the person making the report for more information, but this is not required. Even in cases of suspicion, the matter will be carefully investigated, although it may take some time before any results are visible.