RENTER'S GUIDE
in Belgium
Renting accommodation in Belgium can quickly become a headache: documents, guarantees, different rules depending on the region…
This practical guide accompanies you every step of the way, from the property search to the return of the guarantee. You’ll find simple explanations, ready-to-use sample documents and useful advice on how to avoid the most common mistakes.
Tip: If you are on garantie.be, click to create your 100% rental guarantee online without blocking your funds.
1 - Before renting a property
Before signing a lease, it’s essential to be well prepared. A dwelling must be compliant, safe and healthy. The landlord also has obligations to provide information before signing.
Read our specific articles on what to check before renting in Belgium:
- How do you know if a property is suitable for rent?
- Do I need a rental permit? In which cases?
- What to check before signing a lease
- Mandatory documents to be submitted before signing
Useful templates to download
2 - On signing the lease
This is the most important stage: the one where everything is formalized. A well-drafted and properly registered lease contract protects both tenant and landlord. This is when the rental guarantee and home insurance are put in place.
Read our specific articles on signing a lease in Belgium:
- How to read and understand a lease contract
- How do I register my lease?
- What types of rental guarantee are available?
- Is fire insurance compulsory for tenants?
- Colocation and subletting: what are the rules?
Useful templates to download
- Standard lease contract (main residence)
- Security deposit certificate
- Sample tenant insurance letter
3 - During the rental period
For the duration of the lease, certain rules apply to ensure good cohabitation between tenant and landlord. Who pays for repairs? Can the rent be increased? What charges are justified? Here’s everything you need to know:
- Repairs and maintenance: who pays for what?
- How do I pay my rent and what should I do if I’m late?
- What expenses are recoverable?
- Unfair or excessive rent: what recourse is available?
- Can I be barred from having a home or pets?
Useful templates to download
- Repair request letter
- Letter contesting a rent increase
- Letter disputing charges
4 - Leaving the home
When the time comes to leave, you have to respect the notice periods, draw up an inventory of fixtures and make sure you get your rental guarantee. . These articles explain each stage of the process, so you can leave with peace of mind. :
- How to give notice and meet deadlines?
- What happens at the end of the lease?
- How do I get my rental guarantee back?
- Administrative formalities after the move
Useful templates to download
- Lease termination letter (9-year/short-term lease)
- Rental guarantee return request letter
- Checklist for inventory of fixtures
In the event of a dispute or problem
Sometimes things don’t go as planned: disputed rent, substandard housing, conflict with the landlord… Don’t panic: there are remedies and amicable solutions before you have to go to court.
- Dispute unjustified rent or charges
- What can I do if my home is unfit for habitation?
- What should I do if I’m threatened with eviction?
- What help is there for tenants in difficulty?
- Resolving rental disputes without going to court?
Tip: In the event of disagreement, try mediation or conciliation first, before taking legal action. Most disputes can be settled quickly through dialogue.
Frequently asked questions from tenants in Belgium
Pay the rent on time, maintain the property, respect the neighbors and the terms of the lease.
In general, within 30 days of the exit inventory of fixtures, if no damage has been noted.
Yes, but only according to the legal indexation rules and under the conditions defined by the region.
