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How to rent an apartment in Brussels?

How to find an apartment in Brussels? How to rent accommodation? We give you every thing you have to know as a renter in Belgium 🇧🇪

You have decided to move to Belgium. Welcome to the country of chocolate and fries! 🍫🍟 Finding an accommodation won’t be easy. How can you look for one? What are the tips and tricks to rent a place? Renting isn’t easy. Flora gives you all the information on how to rent an apartment in Brussels 

Everything you need to know before renting an apartment in Brussels

Brussels is an optimal location to rent an apartment 📍

As the capital of Belgium, it serves as the cultural hub of Belgian society. Notably, Brussels boasts a diverse and vibrant multicultural environment, further adding to its appeal.

There are several suburbs in Brussels that cater to the needs of expatriates, such as Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, and Etterbeek. These suburbs are conveniently situated in proximity to the city center and are easily accessible via public transport like buses, trains, and trams 🚍

On the other hand, the city center is generally not recommended for rental purposes due to the typically high rental prices.

Regarding the rental costs, a two-bedroom apartment close to the center can range between €700 and €1.000 per month, depending on the location and size of the unit. It’s important to note that rental charges such as electricity, water, and heating are usually not included in the rent. Therefore, it’s necessary to budget for additional expenses prior to renting.

Additionally, furnished apartments are typically more expensive than unfurnished ones.

Building in Brussels

Welcome to Brussels, the city of Manneken Pis

How to find accommodation in the Capital ?

There are a variety of accommodation options available for rent in Brussels, including houses, apartments, studios, and coliving residences 🏠

When choosing your rental, it is also essential to determine whether you prefer living alone or with roommates. Cohousing has become a popular choice among expatriates. It provides an opportunity to save money and avoid isolation. Sharing a flat allows you to live in a community and make friends more easily in a foreign country.

The do’s and don’ts when you rent an apartment in Brussels

There are different steps in renting an apartment in Brussels 👇

Lease contract

Short- and long-term rental agreements are formalized through a lease contract between the landlord and the tenant ✍🏼

This contract outlines:

  • the respective rights and duties of each party
  • the duration of the lease
  • the protocol for termination

Typically, there are two types of lease agreements: short-term and long-term. The former has a maximum lease period of three years, with the option of signing a six-month or one-year contract.

In contrast, a long-term lease entails a rental period of more than three years but no more than nine years. In the absence of any specific provisions in the contract, the standard rental period is nine years, and the agreement is automatically renewed each year.

A notice of termination is required to end the lease, and specific notice periods must be respected.

Inventory

In Belgium, conducting an inventory of fixtures is a mandatory step in the process of renting a flat 📃

This inventory provides a detailed description of the condition of the accommodation at the time of handover and can be performed by either the landlord or a specialized office. It is imperative that the tenant be present during this process.

The inventory of fixtures serves as an essential document on the day you wish to recover your rental deposit. Therefore, it is imperative that it is conducted accurately and comprehensively.

Repairs

In Brussels, tenants are responsible for minor repairs such as fixing a broken sink or a crack in the wall 🔨

However, it is necessary for tenants to notify their landlord each time such repairs are made.

On the other hand, landlords are responsible for major repairs such as fixing the roof. It is their duty to ensure that the property remains habitable and in good condition for their tenants.

Registration of your lease contract

In Belgium, it is mandatory for landlords to register their lease contract. Failure to do so renders the agreement unlawful, hence the importance of ensuring that the registration process has been completed correctly ⚠️

It is imperative that the lease agreement is registered within two months of its signing. As a tenant, you can confirm the registration status of your lease agreement by accessing the “My home and properties” section under “Check my leases” on the MyMinfin portal, after logging in.

An unregistered tenancy agreement may be terminated without notice or compensation by the tenant. Thus, both landlords and tenants must ensure that the registration process is carried out correctly and on time to avoid any legal complications.

And don’t forget your renters insurance!

That’s it! You’ve found the perfect apartment to rent in Brussels! What about your insurance? 🤷‍♀️

While it is not compulsory to have renters insurance, landlords often require tenants to have it, as stated in the lease contract.

In Belgium, fire insurance offers protection in case of disasters such as fire, water damage, or broken windows. The basic coverage, referred to as “Tenant’s civil liability“, covers the tenant’s responsibility in the event of damage to the rented property or neighbouring buildings.

Tenants may also choose to take out an additional guarantee to cover their personal belongings such as furniture and electronic devices. It is advisable for tenants to carefully consider the available insurance options to ensure they are adequately covered in case of unforeseen events

woman surprised on her phone

Renting an apartment in Brussels as an expatriate involves several important steps. As an expat, now you understand the need to search for suitable accommodation options, decide on the type of contract and duration, conduct an inventory of fixtures, register the lease contract, and consider renters’ insurance. With all those tips and tricks, it has never been easier to rent an apartment in Brussels 🇧🇪

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