Purmerend Eases Homestay Rules: no permit needed up to two rentals

Purmerend will allow residents to rent out two rooms without a permit. A practical policy change that encourages home sharing and better use of existing housing.

Purmerend has taken a concrete step to ease housing pressure. The city council approved a policy change allowing residents to rent out two rooms without a permit instead of one. A measure reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s — when homestay renting was common — and one that is highly relevant again today.

The proposal, introduced by the local party Gemeentebelangen Purmerend, received broad support and aligns with the city’s housing vision, which aims to create more opportunities for young people and single households through home sharing.

Better use of existing homes

While detailed local data is limited, national research (Ministry of the Interior, 2024) shows that one third of Dutch residents have space to rent out a room, and 8% seriously consider doing so. Additional data from Hospi Housing indicates that around fifteen active homestay hosts are currently operating in Purmerend. Relaxing regulations lowers the threshold for more residents to start hosting.

During the council debate, references were made to cities such as Utrecht, Nijmegen and Maastricht, where similar policies have proven effective. Concerns about oversight and liveability were raised, but supporters argued that the impact of one extra resident per home is minimal, while the benefit for people searching for housing is substantial.

Part of a broader shift

The change to homestay rules is part of a wider housing discussion in Purmerend. The council also approved plans to allow smaller homes (from 35 m²), and at national level new legislation is being prepared to further encourage homestay renting.

For Hospi Housing, this decision once again shows that local policy choices can make a real difference. Enabling home sharing helps unlock existing housing potential — quickly, affordably and with social value.