Anti-kraak (Anti-Squat Housing)
Understanding the Dutch rental term "Anti-kraak" and what it means for tenants in the Netherlands.
Definition
A temporary living arrangement where tenants occupy vacant properties (offices, schools, or residential buildings) to prevent squatting. Anti-kraak residents are classified as property guardians rather than tenants and have significantly fewer rights than regular renters. The arrangement can be terminated on short notice, usually within a few weeks.
When you'll encounter this
You will encounter anti-kraak when looking for very affordable temporary accommodation, often through agencies like Camelot, Ad Hoc, or Alvast.
Example
You sign an anti-kraak agreement for a former school building in The Hague. You pay only €250 per month but receive just two weeks' notice when the building is sold for redevelopment.
Practical tip
Anti-kraak is very cheap but offers minimal legal protection. Use it only as a temporary solution while you search for a regular rental. Keep searching actively because you may need to leave on very short notice.
Related terms
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