In Belgium
Gross rent is the total amount the tenant pays each month. It comprises two components:
- The base rent (or net rent): the owner’s remuneration
- Service charges: provisions or flat rate for common expenses
This distinction matters because indexation only applies to the base rent, not charges. Similarly, the Brussels indicative rent grid refers to the base rent (excluding charges).
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Good to know
Property advertisements must clearly distinguish base rent and charges. A rent shown as “all-inclusive” without distinction can cause problems for indexation and charge statements.
Practical example
An apartment in Liege: base rent 780 EUR + charge provisions 110 EUR = gross rent of 890 EUR/month. At indexation, only the 780 EUR is adjusted per the health index. Provisions stay at 110 EUR (adjustable only after the annual statement).