In Belgium

The occupancy rate is the positive counterpart to the vacancy rate. It measures the proportion of time a rental property is generating income.

Formula: Occupancy rate = (Occupied months / Total months) x 100

For Belgian residential property, a target occupancy rate of 95% or above (equivalent to a maximum of 2-3 weeks vacancy per year) is considered healthy.

How it works

Portfolio tracking. For landlords with multiple properties, tracking the occupancy rate across the portfolio identifies underperforming units. A dashboard in online management software typically displays this metric.

Impact on profitability. Each percentage point of occupancy directly impacts the net yield. On a 10,000 EUR/year potential rent, 95% occupancy = 9,500 EUR actual income vs 85% = 8,500 EUR — a 1,000 EUR difference.

i
Good to know
An occupancy rate of 100% year after year is not necessarily a sign of good management — it may indicate that the rent is significantly below market rate. Periodic rent adjustments (via indexation or renegotiation at lease renewal) are healthy.

Practical example

Sophie tracks her 4 apartments’ occupancy over the year: 100%, 100%, 92% (1 month vacancy), 100%. Portfolio average: 98% — excellent. The 92% unit had a tenant change, which is normal turnover.