Light fixings are allowed; major drilling needs consent
The landlord cannot absolutely prohibit drilling into walls. Light fixings (plugs, hooks, shelves, picture hangings) are part of normal enjoyment of the property. Major drilling (load-bearing walls, pipe penetrations) requires the landlord’s written consent. The tenant must fill all holes when leaving.
Any lease clause that absolutely prohibits drilling is considered abusive and may be voided by a judge. The tenant has a right to personalise the living space within reasonable limits.
What is allowed without consent
| Action | Consent needed? |
|---|---|
| Hanging pictures with plugs | No |
| Installing shelves (standard plugs) | No |
| Mounting a TV bracket | No (standard plugs) |
| Hanging curtain rods | No |
| Drilling into load-bearing walls | Yes |
| Penetrating walls for pipes/cables | Yes |
| Installing heavy items (climbing wall, etc.) | Yes |
All holes must be properly filled (filler, sanded, and optionally painted) before the exit inventory. Unfilled holes may lead to deductions from the deposit. Standard plug holes (6-8mm) are easy to fill and should not cause issues.
End of lease obligations
At the exit inventory:
- Small plug holes (properly filled): should not result in deductions
- Unfilled holes: the landlord can deduct the cost of repair
- Damage to load-bearing walls (without consent): the tenant bears full repair costs
- Excessive holes: even if filled, an unreasonable number of holes may be considered damage
The entry inventory serves as the comparison reference. Holes that existed at entry cannot be charged to the tenant at exit.
Regional specifics
Brussels-Capital Region
The Ordinance of 27 July 2017 follows the general Civil Code rules.
Wallonia
The Decree of 15 March 2018 applies the same framework.
Flanders
The Flemish Housing Rental Decree of 9 November 2018 applies the same rules.
Civil Code, article 1719 (peaceful enjoyment). Civil Code, article 1728 (tenant’s obligation to maintain). Civil Code, article 1730 (return of property).