Almost one in five home owners’ associations (VvE) in the Netherlands does not have enough money set aside for essential maintenance, according to research by Vereniging Eigen Huis and consumer television show Radar, which surveyed 655 apartment owners about VvE costs.

The homeowners’ lobby group said some residents have seen their monthly contribution rise by €100 to €200, to make up the shortfall, and some members reported increases of €500 over five years.

“Nearly 30% of owners are worried about whether they will be able to afford their VvE contribution in the long term,” said VEH spokesman Guido Rodenburg. “Major, necessary investments should not lead to financial problems for residents.”

The average VvE contribution is now €270 a month, €65 more than five years ago, the VEH said. By law, a VvE must build up a reserve fund for maintenance and if there is no maintenance plan, a VvE must save at least 0.5% of the building’s rebuilding value each year.

The VEH advises buyers to check their home owners association’s financial health, recent maintenance and whether sustainability measures have been taken.

Despite concerns about rising costs, 65% of apartment owners said they would be willing to pay slightly more for proper maintenance. “If paying a bit extra takes away the worry, that has value,” Rodenburg said. “And good maintenance and sustainability measures also increase the value of the property.”