Tenant pays for descaling as routine maintenance
Boiler descaling is routine maintenance at the tenant’s expense, alongside the mandatory annual service. The landlord pays for boiler replacement if it is worn out or defective. If a breakdown is caused by limescale accumulated before the tenant’s arrival, the landlord may be held responsible.
| Task | Responsible |
|---|---|
| Annual boiler service | Tenant |
| Descaling | Tenant |
| Radiator bleeding | Tenant |
| Thermostat replacement (wear) | Tenant |
| Boiler replacement (age/defect) | Landlord |
| Boiler repair (manufacturer defect) | Landlord |
Recommended maintenance schedule
| Maintenance task | Frequency | Approximate cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual service (mandatory) | Every year | 100-200 EUR |
| Descaling | Every 2-5 years (depending on water hardness) | 150-300 EUR |
| Radiator bleeding | Start of each heating season | Free (DIY) |
| Filter cleaning | Every 3-6 months | Free (DIY) |
Always keep invoices and certificates from boiler servicing. They prove that you fulfilled your maintenance obligation and protect you in case of a dispute or boiler failure.
When the landlord pays
The landlord is responsible in the following situations:
- Boiler replacement due to age (typical lifespan: 15-20 years)
- Major repair due to a manufacturer defect or structural issue
- Breakdown caused by pre-existing limescale (accumulated before the tenant’s arrival)
- Non-compliant installation (incorrect setup, undersized boiler)
If the boiler breaks down due to the tenant’s failure to perform annual maintenance, the tenant may be held responsible for the repair or replacement cost. This is why keeping service records is essential.
Regional specifics
Brussels-Capital Region
The Ordinance of 27 July 2017 requires annual boiler maintenance. Brussels has high water hardness, making descaling particularly important.
Wallonia
The Decree of 15 March 2018 applies the same mandatory annual service. Walloon water hardness varies by area.
Flanders
The Flemish Housing Rental Decree of 9 November 2018 confirms the tenant’s routine maintenance obligation.
Civil Code, articles 1754-1755 (tenant repairs — routine maintenance). Regional energy regulations (mandatory annual boiler service).