In Belgium

The co-ownership regulations (reglement de copropriete) are the founding document of any co-ownership. Drafted by a notary and registered at the mortgage registry, they define the rules governing the building and its occupants.

The regulations typically include:

  • Description of private lots and common areas: what belongs to each co-owner vs what is shared
  • Distribution of charges: the share (thousandths) attributed to each lot
  • Rules of use: noise restrictions, pet policies, balcony rules, parking allocation
  • Governance: meeting procedures, voting rules, property manager’s powers
  • Works: rules for modifications to private lots that may affect common areas

How it works

Binding force. The regulations are binding on all co-owners, their tenants, and future buyers. When selling an apartment, the regulations are automatically transferred to the new owner.

Modification. Changing the regulations requires a qualified majority vote at the general assembly (typically 2/3 or 3/4 depending on the matter) and a new notarial deed.

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Good to know
The co-ownership regulations are binding on tenants too. When signing a lease for an apartment in co-ownership, the landlord must provide the regulations to the tenant. The tenant must comply with the rules (noise, common areas, parking) or face potential lease termination.

Practical example

The regulations of a building in Antwerp stipulate that short-term tourist rentals (Airbnb) are prohibited. A co-owner who lets their apartment on a holiday platform is in breach of the regulations. The property manager sends a formal notice, and if the practice continues, the co-ownership can seek a court injunction.