Valuation

What is your home worth? The new foundation rules of 2026 explained

2 June 2026 · 3 min read

The Dutch housing market is changing fast. Since 1 April 2026, foundation information has been a mandatory part of every valuation report. That means buyers and sellers get earlier and clearer insight into possible foundation risks, and that influences negotiations, financing and sales strategy. If you own a home here as an international, this is exactly the kind of rule you need to understand.

Why these rules exist

Soil subsidence, drought and ageing wooden pile foundations are causing growing risks in many Dutch neighbourhoods. A national system has therefore been introduced that gives homes a foundation-risk score and makes this information mandatory in valuation reports. The aim is to reduce uncertainty for buyers and make transactions more transparent.

How the A to E score works

A valuer gives a score from A (no issues) to E (clear risk, further investigation needed). Labels A and B require no action. Label C asks for attention to factors such as the year of construction and the soil. Labels D and E often lead to advice for further investigation. Importantly, a D or E does not automatically mean there is damage, only that there is an uncertainty that should be looked into. In short: A and B have no effect on value, C usually has no downward pressure, D can lower the value without investigation, and E means investigation is needed and a value effect is possible.

Practical tips for sellers

Be transparent: providing information early prevents delays and renegotiation. Prepare by collecting structural documents and consider a quick scan. Support your story, because a D label with a clear investigation report sells better than no information at all. And bring in an expert, so everything is in order and your local specialist looks along with you.

Practical tips for buyers

Ask for the foundation score during the viewing. Read the valuation report and request further investigation if in doubt. Negotiate on the basis of facts, because maintenance estimates and financing risks become clearer with a label. And here too: with a local expert at your side, you stand stronger.

Local points of attention: Helmond, Eindhoven and Brainport

The region has many pre-war homes, varying soil types and neighbourhoods with a history of subsidence reports. In Helmond, Eindhoven and certainly in the Brainport area, it is wise to be supported by someone who knows the local ground and the building years. Buy or sell together with a local agent who understands the soil and the era of construction, and use neighbourhood data for an accurate estimate. That reduces uncertainty and protects value.

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