In Belgium
The registered letter (lettre recommandee / aangetekende brief) is the standard legal communication method in Belgian rental law. Many actions require it: formal notices, notice to quit, lease termination, rent indexation notifications.
How it works
Legal value. Provides proof of the date of sending, the date of receipt, and the sender’s identity.
If refused. A registered letter not collected is considered delivered on the first day after attempted delivery. The recipient cannot claim ignorance.
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Good to know
Since 2016, the electronic registered letter (e-Recommande via bpost) is legally equivalent to a paper registered letter. It is faster, cheaper and provides the same guarantees.
Practical example
A landlord gives notice by registered letter. The tenant signs on 3 March. The 6-month notice period begins on 1 April. The tenant must vacate by 30 September.