The Long Hurdle Run – what homeowners' associations learn about sustainability
- Externe publicaties
- Oct 27
- 2 min read
Summary
Making a homeowners' association (VvE) more sustainable isn't a sprint, it's a hurdle run. This is evident in the book "De Lange Hordenloop" (The Long Hurdle Race) about VvE Sustainability , which provides practical examples of how they make their buildings future-proof step by step. The Sustainability Committee is pleased to share this book with all residents of Kleiburg Phase 1, as it's relatable and informative for our own approach.
You can download it at the bottom of this article (please mind that this issue has only been published in Dutch) .
What is the Long Hurdles Run?
The book, commissioned by the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area , tells the story of two homeowners' associations (VvEs) that made their buildings more sustainable. Not through grand promises, but through the real work: building support, making plans, securing financing, and weighing technical options.
The title refers to the many obstacles a homeowners' association (VvE) faces along the way – from subsidies and quotes to permit regulations and communication between residents. The message is hopeful: every hurdle can be overcome, as long as the association takes the process step by step and works well together.
What can we learn from other homeowners' associations?
The book describes the examples of the Anslijn Owners' Association and Buitendok Owners' Association . Both complexes demonstrate that success begins with a clear plan, expert guidance, and plenty of patience.
At VvE Anslijn, a single, coherent package of measures was chosen, which was approved in its entirety.
At VvE Buitendok they started with four variants, but later they decided to further develop only the most feasible scenarios.
This approach – first explore, then narrow down – is exactly what is central to Kleiburg phase 1.
Why are we sharing this book?
The Long Hurdles Run helps us keep expectations realistic. Making an apartment building more sustainable is a years-long process, during which technology, funding, and support must work hand in hand. By learning from other homeowners' associations, we can avoid mistakes and better assess what's needed to make our building future-proof.
📘 Download the book
Frank Steenkamp 2024. The long hurdle race . A lesson in sustainability from two Amsterdam homeowners' associations.
Published by VvENET Amsterdam /MRA. ISBN 978-90-9039-303-2. 112 pp. This publication was made possible by:
Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences?
Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.
