Practical Guide
Rental Security Deposits in Belgium:
Everything You Need to Know in 5 Minutes
A rental security deposit protects the landlord against unpaid rent and damage to the property. Amount, deadlines, available options, and government assistance: here’s what you need to know before signing a rental lease in Belgium.
Definition
What is the rental deposit for?
A rental guarantee (also known as a security deposit) is a sum of money that the tenant sets aside when signing the rental lease. It serves to protect the landlord in the event of:
Unpaid Rent
If the tenant stops paying rent, the landlord may draw on the security deposit.
Rental damage
Damage to the residence beyond normal wear and tear may be covered under the warranty.
Unpaid Expenses
Rent and other charges that remain unpaid at the end of the rental lease may also be covered.
Good to know: A rental security deposit is not legally required in Belgium, but virtually all landlords require one in the rental lease. The amount is capped by law depending on the region.
Statutory Amounts
How much is the security deposit?
The maximum amount of the rental security deposit is set by law and varies depending on the region where the property is located.
Brussels
2 months
maximum rent, excluding utilities.
Wallonia
2 months
maximum rent, excluding utilities.
Flanders
3 months
maximum rent, excluding utilities.
Example: For a monthly rent of 900 € in Brussels, the maximum security deposit is 1,800 €. A landlord cannot legally require more than that.
Timing
When should you set up a rental security deposit?
The security deposit must be paid before or at the time the rental lease is signed. This is a condition often required by the landlord before the keys are handed over.
Find a place to live
The landlord accepts your application and sets a date to sign the lease.
You are providing the security deposit
Before or at the time of signing: escrow account, bank guarantee, or garantie.be guarantee.
You will receive the keys
Proof of the security deposit is provided to the landlord, and the lease is signed.
Available Options
What are the rental security deposit options in Belgium?
There are three main ways to set up a rental security deposit in Belgium. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your situation.
Guaranteed Deposit.be
garantie.be acts as your guarantor. You don’t have to set aside any money—you simply pay a modest annual fee.
- No funds to be held
- 100% Online Application
- A response within a few hours
- Accepted by all lenders
Frozen bank account
You deposit the amount into a restricted account opened in your name. The money remains frozen until the end of the lease.
- Money Still in Your Name
- Capital tied up for 3, 6, or 9 years
- Yield close to zero
Bank Guarantee (Credit)
The bank acts as a guarantor—without requiring you to have the funds on hand—in exchange for a fee.
- No tied-up capital
- Subject to a credit check
- Banking Timelines and Procedures
Guarantee through the CPAS: If you are experiencing financial difficulties, the CPAS in your municipality can act as your guarantor or provide you with an interest-free loan to cover the guarantee. Learn more →
Government Assistance
Available Assistance for Rental Security Deposits in Belgium
If you do not have the necessary funds to post a bond, there are several government programs that can help you, depending on your region.
Housing Fund (Brussels & Wallonia)
Zero-interest loan to finance a rental security deposit. Gradual, interest-free repayment. Available subject to income requirements.
Your municipality’s CPAS
The Public Social Welfare Center may act as a guarantor or provide an advance toward the security deposit. Each CPAS sets its own conditions. View details →
BRUGAL Fund (Brussels)
Specific assistance for low-income tenants in Brussels to help them secure a rental guarantee and cover initial moving expenses.
End of the lease
How do I get my security deposit back?
At the end of the lease, the return of the security deposit depends on the inventory report at move-out and on an agreement between the tenant and the landlord.
Joint Exit Inventory Report
Prepared in the presence of the tenant and the landlord (or the landlord’s representative) and signed by both parties.
Agreement on Potential Damage
If everything is in order, the landlord will issue a release within 30 days. In the event of a dispute, the security deposit may be withheld until a court decision is reached.
Return of the Security Deposit
The amount is refunded (the frozen account is unfrozen, or the garantie.be security deposit is released) after deducting any agreed-upon damages.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Rental Security Deposits
Is a rental deposit required in Belgium?
No, Belgian law does not require a rental guarantee. However, in practice, virtually all landlords require one as a contractual condition. If the rental lease provides for a rental guarantee, you are required to provide it in the manner and within the timeframe specified.
What is the maximum amount of the security deposit?
In Brussels and Wallonia: 2 months’ rent, excluding utilities. In Flanders: 3 months’ rent, excluding utilities. A landlord who demands more would be violating the applicable laws in their region.
What is the difference between a security deposit and a rental guarantee?
These are two terms that refer to the same thing in Belgium. “Rental deposit,” “rental guarantee,” and “rental security deposit” all refer to the financial security measure required when signing a rental lease.
Can I post the security deposit through garantie.be?
Yes. garantie.be is an accredited service that acts as your guarantor. You don’t have to set aside any money in an account—you pay a modest annual fee, and your landlord receives a guarantee certificate that complies with the law. See how it works.
What happens if I don’t have the funds for the security deposit?
There are several options available: your local CPAS may be able to assist, the Housing Fund offers interest-free loans, and services like garantie.be can help you avoid having to come up with the down payment. It’s important to plan ahead before signing the lease.
Can I get my security deposit back if the landlord refuses to return it?
Yes. If the landlord unjustifiably refuses, you can file a complaint with the justice of the peace in the judicial district where the dwelling is located. The procedure is simple and inexpensive. It is recommended that you first send a written formal notice before taking any legal action.
Set up your security deposit without tying up your savings
garantie.be replaces the escrow account with a simple, recognized bond. The entire process is 100% online, with a quick response.