It depends on the cause
Tenant pays: misuse, lost keys, break-in (via insurance). Landlord pays: defective lock due to age or construction defect. The tenant’s fire insurance generally covers locksmith costs after a burglary.
| Cause | Responsible | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Lost keys | Tenant | 80-200 EUR |
| Broken key in lock (tenant’s fault) | Tenant | 100-250 EUR |
| Lock jammed (age/wear) | Landlord | 100-300 EUR |
| Break-in (forced entry) | Tenant’s insurance | 150-500 EUR |
| Defective mechanism (new lock) | Landlord | 100-250 EUR |
Common scenarios
Tenant pays:
- Keys lost or stolen (lock change for security)
- Key breaks in the lock due to rough handling
- Locked out (forgot keys inside)
- Key duplication (additional copies)
Landlord pays:
- Lock mechanism worn out (barrel jams without tenant fault)
- Construction defect (lock does not align with frame)
- Corrosion from age making the lock inoperable
- Compliance upgrade (new security requirements)
In case of a break-in, file a police report immediately and contact your insurance company within 24 hours. The police report is essential for the insurance claim to cover locksmith costs and property damage.
Insurance coverage
The tenant’s fire insurance (assurance incendie locataire) typically covers:
- Locksmith costs after a burglary
- Lock replacement after forced entry
- Temporary security measures (if the door cannot be secured immediately)
- Key replacement in some policies
Check your insurance policy for specific coverage limits and deductibles. Most policies require a police report to process the claim.
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 confirms the same allocation rules.
Civil Code, articles 1754-1755 (tenant repairs). Civil Code, articles 1719-1720 (landlord obligations). Insurance Code (tenant’s fire insurance).