Starting 2024, the SNF standard will also apply to all locations in Belgium and Germany
Until now, accommodations provided in Belgium and Germany were only required to be inspected according to the SNF standard (Foundation for Flexible Housing Norms) when they were located less than 50 kilometers from the Dutch border. This limitation has been removed, and now all accommodation in these countries are required to undergo inspection.
From 2024 onwards, all real estate in Belgium and Germany used for the accommodation of international employees working in the Netherlands will be mandatory registered and subject to thorough periodic inspections. This change will be incorperated in the new version of the standard, which will take effect on January 1, 2024.
United Homes strongly supports the establishment of strict standards to improve the quality of housing for international professionals. Therefore, we are pleased that this limitation will be lifted as of January 1, 2024.
At United Homes, we strive for a future in which every international employee can live in safe and comfortable accommodations. This expansion of our inspection requirements is an important step in that direction. It ensures that all accommodations, regardless of their location, meet our strict standards and prioritize the needs of residents.
Open Day at Industrieweg 16 in Stramproy
United Homes opened the doors of its housing facility for international workers at Industrieweg 16 in Stramproy today. The primary aim of this Open Day event was to enhance mutual understanding in the neighborhood. This location provides accommodation for 192 residents of various nationalities and welcomes a diverse group, including local residents, nearby businesses, officials, clients, and other interested parties. Around 2:30 PM, Mayor Raymond Vlecken and Alderwoman Wendy van Eijk also came to see what was happening.
The United Homes Open Day was a great opportunity for the local community to take a behind-the-scenes look and see firsthand what the housing facility looks like from the inside and who exactly lives there.
The event kicked off at 2:30 PM with a warm welcome speech emphasizing United Homes’ mission. Visitors were then divided into various small groups and given a tour of the facility. During the tour, everyone had the chance to talk to neighbors and United Homes Accommodations staff and learn more about each other. Supervisor Pjotr, who lives on the premises 24/7 and manages everything, was also present.
“The Open Day at United Homes is a wonderful opportunity to bridge the gap between the international residents and the neighborhood,” said Ton Lemmen and Theo Gitmans, both local residents. “It really helped us dispel some prejudices and gain an understanding of the challenges these people experience in our neighborhood.”
The conclusion of the Open Day was marked by an informal reception where visitors had the opportunity to continue their conversations and network.
“We are very pleased with the positive response from the neighborhood to this Open Day,” said Richard van Brecht, the responsible manager at United Homes. “Our goal has always been to create a welcoming environment for our international employees, living in harmony with the neighborhood. Events like these greatly help us achieve that goal.”
The United Homes Open Day in Stramproy was not only an opportunity for people to explore the facility but also an inspiring occasion for learning and connecting. The success of this event demonstrates the importance of continually building bridges between different communities and working together towards an understanding society.
