In Belgium

Home insurance (assurance multirisque habitation / woningverzekering) is the most comprehensive property insurance product available. It goes beyond basic fire insurance to cover a wide range of risks.

Standard coverage includes:

  • Fire, lightning, explosions
  • Storm and hail
  • Water damage (leaks, overflows, infiltration)
  • Theft and vandalism
  • Glass breakage
  • Civil liability (damage to neighbours)
  • Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes)
  • Electrical damage

Optional extensions:

  • Legal protection (rental disputes)
  • Temporary accommodation costs
  • Garden and outdoor installations
  • Swimming pool and annexes

How it works

For landlords. A comprehensive home insurance policy protects the building and covers the landlord’s civil liability. Annual premium: typically 200 to 500 EUR for an apartment, 400 to 800 EUR for a house.

For tenants. A tenant’s home insurance covers contents, tenant’s liability, and abandonment of recourse. Annual premium: 80 to 200 EUR.

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Good to know
Most Belgian leases require the tenant to provide proof of insurance within 30 days of moving in. Failure to provide proof can be grounds for lease termination in some cases.

Practical example

During a storm, a tree falls on the roof of a rented house in Namur, causing water infiltration that damages the tenant’s furniture. The landlord’s home insurance covers the roof repair. The tenant’s home insurance covers the damaged furniture. Without insurance, both would bear their respective losses.