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:

Useful templates - free 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 rental lease in Belgium :

Useful templates - free download

  • Lease agreement for Brussels
  • Lease contract for Flanders
  • Lease contract for Wallonia
  • 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 - free download

  • Repair request letter
  • Letter contesting a rent increase
  • Letter disputing charges

4 - Leaving the home

When the time comes to leave, you must respect the notice periods and recover the rental guarantee. These articles explain each step to ensure a worry-free departure. :

Useful templates for free download

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.