In 2021, the police received approximately 23,500 reports of burglaries. In 2020, there were more than 30,000 reports, the police had identified 8,440 suspects. In 2021, according to Statistics Netherlands, the number was 2,110. This is a 75 percent decrease. According to criminologist Jesper van der Kemp of Vrij Universiteit, the number of burglaries is decreasing because homes appear to be better protected. There are a number of scientific studies around the world that show that better security reduces the amount of burglaries. There are many different ways of ensuring your home is secure. Think of cameras, locks and alarm systems that work excellently to keep burglars out. There are also more and more traceable devices that people have in their homes. Phones can be traced faster than before. However, it still happens. The police therefore have the following tips: - Leave a light on, close windows and lock doors - Use hinges and locks approved by the PKVW - Also lock the garden gate and the shed Source: Nu.nl

Smoke detectors will become mandatory in rental properties from the 1st of July, 2022.  Landlords are responsible for ensuring compliance with this new regulation.  Municipalities can issue fines for non-compliance, and insurance providers may not cover damages in the event of a file. Rent reductions could also be demanded by tenants if the house does not meet the requirements.  Read how you can easily meet the requirements at: (Dutch) https://www.123wonen.nl/rookmelders-verplicht-voor-huurwoningen

Major energy companies such as Eneco, Essent, Greenchoice and Vattenfall are coming up with a new plan to help consumers. Recently, energy prices have skyrocketed, and consumers are paying the price. As a result, more and more consumers are getting into financial difficulties. Energy companies want to help consumers use gas and electricity more consciously. They will do this by means of tips and an energy coach who can come to homeowners houses and advise.  In addition to this personalised advice, the companies want to point consumers towards existing financial help, such as a government compensation of 800 euros that is available for social minimums. We are also looking to help people with payment problems. The collaborations between the companies are from the public as well as private parties. They want to work towards a financially healthy Netherlands. The prices of many other products are also rising, bringing inflation to 6.4 percent. This is the highest level in 40 years. Information institute Nibud warned that rising prices will lead to more poverty in the Netherlands. According to the institute, hundreds of thousands of households could get into financial difficulty