Accommodation Belgium

Renting accommodation in Belgium, whether for a long-term or short-term, requires knowledge of several key aspects that will help you make the right choice and avoid possible complications.

 

Long-term rental

In Belgium, long-term rental is generally facilitated through standard 9-year contracts. Although these contracts seem long-term, they provide significant flexibility:

- 9-year contract: This type of rental allows you to terminate the agreement at any time with three months' notice. However, if you terminate the agreement within the first three years, you may need to pay a penalty of up to three months' rent.

- Security deposit: In most cases, landlords require a deposit of up to three months' rent. This deposit is held in a blocked bank account until the end of the lease and is returned provided the apartment has not been damaged.

- Contract registration: The landlord is required to register the rental agreement within two months of its signing. This is important for the protection of the tenant's rights and helps to avoid unexpected evictions.

 

Short-term rental

Short-term rental in Belgium is usually contracted for a period from several months to three years:

- Contracts up to three years: If the contract is renewed more than twice, it automatically becomes long-term. Termination of a short-term contract usually requires three months' notice and a penalty payment of one month's rent.

- Housing for expats and temporary accommodation: In major cities like Brussels and Antwerp, there are many offers for short-term rentals that can be fully furnished and include services such as cleaning and maintenance (Temporary Housing Belgium (https://temporaryhousingbelgium.com/ ).

Finding accommodation

- Online platforms: Belgium has numerous online services for finding accommodation for long-term and short-term, such as Rentola (https://temporaryhousingbelgium.com/), Immoweb (https://www.immoweb.be/), and others.

- Real estate agencies: Consulting a real estate agent can be helpful, especially if you are not familiar with the local market and legislation.

 

Additional expenses

When renting accommodation, it is important to consider additional expenses such as utilities, which are usually not included in the rent, as well as possible cleaning fees at the end of the lease, especially for short-term contracts.

A rental or sale agreement is a legal document that plays a key role in ensuring the rights and obligations of both the tenant/buyer and the landlord/seller. Here are the main reasons why such an agreement is necessary:

 

Legal protection

   - For the tenant: The rental agreement protects you from arbitrary rent increases, sudden eviction, and other possible violations from the landlord. It clearly spells out the terms of the lease, such as the rent amount, contract duration, renewal conditions, and the rights and obligations of the parties. In case of a dispute, the agreement is the main document that will be used in court to resolve the conflict.

   - For the buyer: The purchase agreement records all transaction conditions, including price, payment terms, party responsibilities, and details of ownership transfer. It protects the buyer from possible claims from third parties and ensures receiving the property within specified terms.

 

Proof of housing rights

   - For the tenant: Having a registered rental agreement is proof of your legal right to reside in the rented accommodation. This is important for residence registration, obtaining utilities, and even for submitting documents for a residence permit.

   - For the buyer: The purchase agreement confirms your ownership right to the property and is necessary for registering ownership in the cadastre and other official registers.

 

Financial guarantees

   - For the tenant: The agreement specifies the amount and payment procedure for rent, as well as the conditions for deposit return. This helps avoid misunderstandings and financial disputes with the landlord.

   - For the buyer: The purchase agreement outlines all financial obligations of the parties, including the payment of property purchase tax and other related fees.

 

Arrangement of Living Conditions

   - For the tenant: A lease agreement may include terms regarding the use of the property (e.g., repairs, pet policies, subletting, etc.). This helps establish clear guidelines for the use of the rented accommodation.

   - For the buyer: The contract may also include the seller's obligations to correct identified defects or provide warranties for a certain period.

Renting housing in Belgium has a number of features related to the type of available apartments, living conditions, and rules for tenants.

 

Types of Housing

   - Furnished Apartments: In Belgium, you can find both furnished and unfurnished apartments. Furnished apartments are more often offered for short-term rentals and are usually more expensive. They may include a full set of furniture and appliances, which is convenient for expats or those temporarily residing in the country.

   - Unfurnished Apartments: Most long-term rental offers are for unfurnished apartments. Tenants should consider additional costs for purchasing furniture and appliances.

 

Available Housing and Prices

   - Rental Prices: The cost of rent depends on the region and type of housing. In large cities like Brussels, Antwerp, or Ghent, prices are higher. For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the center of Brussels can range from 700 to 1200 euros per month. In the suburbs or less popular regions, prices can be significantly lower, starting from 400-600 euros for a one-bedroom apartment.

   - Housing Options: Both apartments and houses are available. In cities, apartments are most commonly rented, whereas in suburbs, houses with gardens and multiple bedrooms can be found.

 

Can you rent housing with pets?

   - The question of whether pets are allowed should be discussed with the landlord before signing the contract. Many landlords allow pets but may impose certain conditions, such as an additional deposit or restrictions on the type and size of the pet. It's also important to note that in the case of having pets, the landlord may request enhanced cleaning measures when moving out.

 

Features of Renting Apartments

   - Long-term Contracts: In most cases, contracts for 9 years are concluded, which allows the tenant to feel secure and stable while living in one place.

   - Short-term Rental: For those temporarily in Belgium, short-term rental options are available, usually for furnished apartments, with flexible conditions.

 

However, renting housing in Belgium can be a challenge, especially in large cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, or Ghent, where the demand for rent is high. This creates certain competition among tenants, especially for housing that is in good condition, conveniently located, and reasonably priced.

 

In large cities in Belgium, there is a high demand for rented housing, making the apartment search process more competitive. Tenants often face situations where several candidates are interested in the same apartment simultaneously. This is especially true for well-located apartments (e.g., in the city center or near transportation hubs) and for housing with a good price-quality ratio.

 

Landlords may impose strict requirements on tenants, including proof of financial stability (e.g., income certificate, work contract) and references from previous landlords. In some cases, tenants may find that the landlord prefers candidates with high and stable income, which can complicate the process for students or those with irregular income.

Buying real estate in Belgium can be an exciting but also complex process, especially for foreigners. 

 

Finding Property

 

In Belgium, there are many ways to find property. You can use online platforms like Immoweb, Immovlan, and Zimmo, where various properties for sale are presented. You can also contact real estate agents (real estate agencies) who will help you find a suitable option and guide you through all stages of the purchase.

 

Evaluation and Inspection

 

When selecting real estate, it's important to carefully inspect the property. Ensure that all systems (electricity, water supply, heating) are in good order, and that the building meets safety and energy efficiency standards. It is recommended to conduct several inspections, possibly with the help of an expert who can identify hidden issues.

 

Transaction: Offer and Negotiations

 

In Belgium, it is customary to negotiate the price. You can make an offer that is usually 5-10% below the asking price. It's important to understand that every offer made in writing is legally binding, so be cautious when specifying the price.

 

Signing a Preliminary Agreement

 

If your offer is accepted, the next step is to sign a preliminary purchase agreement. This agreement outlines all the terms of the transaction, including the price and deadlines. It is also usually required to make a deposit of 10% of the property's cost.

 

Document Verification and Finalization

 

At this stage, the seller must provide you with all necessary documents, including an energy efficiency certificate, an electrical systems inspection report, information on possible soil contamination, and other important documents. The transaction is finalized with the signing of the notarial deed and transfer of ownership rights. This process occurs within four months after the preliminary agreement is signed.

 

Completing the Transaction

 

After signing the notarial deed, you become the rightful owner of the property. The remaining mortgage payments and taxes should also be paid at this time.

In Belgium, the obligation to insure real estate depends on the region and type of property.

 

For tenants:

  - In the Flanders and Wallonia regions, liability insurance is mandatory. This insurance covers damage a tenant may cause to the owner's property, such as in cases of fire or flooding. In Brussels, such insurance is not formally mandatory, but it is often required in lease agreements.

 

For owners:

  - Property insurance for owners is not legally mandatory throughout Belgium. However, it is strongly recommended, especially if the property is purchased using a mortgage, as banks typically require insurance as a condition of the loan. This insurance protects the building from risks such as fire, flooding, and other damages.

Payment for utilities in Belgium has its own features, which are important to consider when planning your budget.

 

Main types of utilities and their payment

 

Electricity and gas:

  - Providers and tariffs: In Belgium, there are many energy providers, and you can choose the tariff that suits you best. Electricity is the most popular energy source, but some homes also use gas. Tariffs vary depending on the provider, region, and the type of contract chosen (e.g., fixed or variable rate).

  - Payment: The most convenient way to pay for utilities is through automatic deductions from your bank account. At the end of the year, your energy provider will reconcile based on actual consumption. If you have used less than you paid for, you will be refunded; if you used more, you will receive an additional bill.

 

Water supply:

  - Water supply in Belgium is organized by regions, and each region has its own supplier. Your water invoice will consist of a fixed annual fee and a variable part based on the volume of water consumed.

  - Registration and payment: When moving into a new home, you need to register with the local water supplier. As with energy, it is most convenient to set up automatic bill payments.

 

Internet and television:

  - In Belgium, several internet providers are available, and service packages vary depending on connection speed and included services. Internet connection may require a one-time activation fee and the purchase of a router. Payment for services can also be organized through automatic deductions from your bank account.

 

Methods of Paying Utility Bills

 

- Automatic Deductions: The most common and convenient way to pay bills in Belgium. You can set up automatic deductions from your bank account to avoid missing payment deadlines.

- Online Payments: Online payments through banking apps or internet banking are also popular. You can manually pay bills via bank transfer.

- Regular Payments: If the amount of monthly payments is fixed, you can set up a regular payment for a specific amount.

 

Payment Frequency and Structure

 

Utility bills are usually issued monthly, but there may be other options such as quarterly or annual adjustments. It's important to keep track of deadlines and ensure there is enough money in the account for automatic deductions.

For comfortable living in apartment buildings in Belgium, it is important to follow certain rules that are regulated both at the legislative level and by the internal regulations of each specific building. 

General Rules of Conduct

Most apartment buildings have rules aimed at ensuring peace and quiet, especially in the evening and nighttime hours. Usually, this time is from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, during which loud noises such as music, loud conversations, or repair work should be avoided. Violation of this rule may lead to complaints from neighbors and administrative penalties.

Cleanliness and Maintenance of Common Areas

Residents are required to maintain cleanliness not only in their apartments but also in common areas such as stairwells, elevators, corridors, and yards. Personal items are generally prohibited in these areas. Responsibility for cleaning common spaces may be assigned to all residents or to a management company, as stipulated in the building’s regulations.

Use of Common Amenities

Apartment buildings often have common amenities such as laundries, parking lots, storage rooms, and play areas. The use of these amenities is typically governed by special rules that include booking time, maintaining order, and responsibility for possible damages.

Repair and Construction Work

Repair work that may inconvenience neighbors (noise, dust) is allowed only during specific hours, usually on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Such work may be completely prohibited on weekends and holidays or allowed for limited times.

Pets

The issue of keeping pets is also regulated by the building's rules. In some buildings, this may be prohibited, while in others, it is allowed with certain restrictions (for example, dogs must be walked in specific areas and cleaned up after).

Parking

Car parking can be organized in private parking spaces or underground garages. Residents must adhere to parking rules and not occupy spots not designated for their cars. In some cases, violating parking rules may result in fines or vehicle towing.

Fire Safety Compliance

Residents are required to comply with fire safety rules, which include prohibiting smoking in public areas, ensuring access to emergency exits, and using fire-resistant materials during repairs.

Management Company and Resident Meetings

Many apartment buildings are managed by a management company or a residents' association, which monitors compliance with rules, organization of repairs, and improvements. Regular resident meetings allow discussing issues related to the management of the building and making collective decisions.

These rules may vary depending on the specific building and region of Belgium, so it's recommended to familiarize yourself with the building's internal regulations immediately after moving in.

The real estate market in Belgium has a number of characteristics that are important to consider for both locals and immigrants. 

 

Regional Differences

 

The real estate market in Belgium varies greatly depending on the region. The country is divided into three main regions: Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia. In each of these regions, real estate prices, tax rates, and regulations may differ significantly:

- Brussels: The most expensive region where housing prices are significantly higher compared to other parts of the country. The Brussels market attracts both international buyers and investors due to the city's status as the EU capital.

- Flanders: The real estate market is also active here, especially in cities such as Antwerp and Ghent. Prices are somewhat lower than in Brussels, but still quite high, particularly in major cities.

- Wallonia: The most affordable region in terms of property costs. More affordable housing options can be found here, especially in rural areas.

 

Types of Real Estate

 

The market offers a variety of real estate types, from apartments in multi-unit buildings to private houses and townhouses. In recent years, there has been growing interest in buying houses with land plots in the countryside, especially among families seeking more spacious accommodation.

 

Housing Prices and Affordability

 

Property prices in Belgium are steadily rising, making the market attractive for investment. The average cost per square meter varies depending on the region: it is higher in Brussels than in other parts of the country. Nevertheless, Belgium remains more affordable compared to countries like France or Germany.

 

Taxes and Fees

 

When purchasing real estate in Belgium, buyers encounter various taxes and fees:

- Registration tax (10-12.5% depending on the region) for secondary properties.

- VAT on new properties is 21%.

- Annual property tax (approximately 1.25-2.5% of the cadastral value).

These taxes can vary depending on the region and the type of property.

 

Housing Shortage in Belgium

 

The real estate market in Belgium faces some challenges related to housing shortages, particularly in major cities and the Brussels metropolitan region. Here are the main factors influencing the situation:

 

- Population growth and urbanization: In recent years, Belgium has faced population growth, especially in major cities and the Brussels metropolitan region. This growth drives demand for housing, particularly among young families and immigrants, leading to a shortage of affordable housing in several cities.

 

- Insufficient construction of new housing: Despite ongoing construction of new residential complexes in Belgium, construction rates often lag behind demand growth. This is particularly noticeable in Brussels and Antwerp, where limited land resources and high construction costs make it difficult to meet demand. This leads to rising real estate prices and complicates access to housing for new buyers.

 

- Housing affordability issues: High property and rental prices, especially in capitals and major cities, complicate access to housing for middle and lower classes. The shortage of affordable housing becomes particularly acute amid population growth and economic instability.

 

- Real estate investments: Investor interest in the Belgian real estate market also plays a role in the housing shortage. Many investors buy properties for rental purposes, further reducing housing availability for those seeking it for their own residence.

 

New Construction

 

Despite existing challenges, efforts are being made in Belgium to increase new construction volumes:

- Government programs and subsidies: In some regions, programs to support new housing construction, as well as subsidies for developers building affordable housing, are being introduced.

- Renovation of old properties: In addition to new construction, active work is being done to renovate and modernize the old housing stock, which also contributes to increasing housing availability.

The cost of living in Belgium varies depending on the region, city, and lifestyle. On average, living expenses in Belgium are considered above average compared to other EU countries, but they can differ significantly based on the specific place of residence and level of living.

 

Housing

   - Rent: The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Brussels is about 900-1,200 euros per month, while in other major cities like Antwerp and Ghent, rental rates may be slightly lower—around 700-1,000 euros. In smaller towns and rural areas, rent can be cheaper, around 600-800 euros per month.

   - Real Estate Purchase: The average price of housing in Belgium is around 3,000 euros per square meter, but it heavily depends on the region: in Brussels, prices can be significantly higher, while in rural areas, they may be below the average.

 

Utilities

   - Utilities, including electricity, gas, water, and internet, can cost from 150 to 250 euros per month depending on the size of the dwelling and personal needs. These expenses are usually higher in the colder months due to increased heating costs.

 

Groceries

   - Grocery expenses in Belgium are also above average. For one person, monthly grocery expenses can range from 200 to 400 euros depending on preferences and the shopping location. Prices in supermarkets vary, with more expensive chains like Delhaize offering a wider range of quality products, and more affordable ones like Aldi or Lidl allowing for more savings.

 

Transport

   - The cost of public transport depends on the city. In Brussels, a monthly pass for all types of public transport costs around 49 euros. Car owners should consider additional expenses for fuel, insurance, and maintenance, which can reach several hundred euros per month.

 

Entertainment and Leisure

   - The cost of entertainment, such as visiting restaurants, cinemas, and gyms, can also vary. The average cost of a meal in a mid-range restaurant is about 15-25 euros per person, and a monthly gym membership is about 25-50 euros.

 

Healthcare

   - In Belgium, mandatory health insurance covers most medical service costs, but for a wider range of services, many residents purchase additional insurance. Monthly health insurance expenses can range from 50 to 100 euros depending on the plan.

 

Thus, the overall cost of living in Belgium is relatively high, especially in large cities. However, due to high living standards and quality services, the expenses can be justified.

Belgium has a range of government programs and subsidies aimed at supporting different categories of the population, including housing assistance, energy efficiency, social support, and other measures.

 

Housing Subsidies

   - Rental subsidies: In some regions, such as Wallonia and Flanders, rental assistance is available for low-income individuals. These programs help cover part of the rent, making housing more accessible for socially vulnerable groups.

   - Housing purchase subsidies: For low-income families, there are subsidy programs for purchasing housing. In Brussels and other regions, one can receive financial assistance for down payments when buying property or to cover part of the mortgage payments. It is important to note that conditions and availability of such subsidies may vary depending on the region.

 

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Subsidies

   - Subsidies for energy-efficient improvements: Belgium offers various support programs for those wishing to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. For example, one can receive grants for installing solar panels, replacing old windows with energy-saving ones, improving insulation, and other measures to reduce energy consumption.

   - "Green Check" Program: In Wallonia, there is a support program aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes. It provides financial assistance for improving the ecological characteristics of housing, such as insulation or installing environmentally friendly heating.

 

Social Subsidies and Benefits

   - Benefits for low-income families: Belgium has a number of social assistance programs that include benefits for low-income families, child allowances, as well as unemployment assistance. These benefits help cover basic living expenses and provide social protection.

   - Child allowances: All families in Belgium are entitled to a monthly child allowance. The amount of the allowance depends on the number of children and their age, as well as the region of residence.

 

Support Programs for the Elderly and People with Disabilities

   - Pension payments: Belgium has a state pension system that provides regular payments to the elderly after reaching retirement age. Additionally, there is an opportunity to receive pension supplements for low-income individuals.

   - Subsidies for persons with disabilities: The state also provides various forms of support for people with disabilities, including subsidies for improving housing accessibility, special medical and social services.

 

The terms and availability of programs may vary depending on the region, so it is important to contact local authorities for specific information.