In Belgium

Compliance certificates ensure rental properties meet minimum standards for safety, health and habitability. The requirements differ by Region:

  • Flanders: the conformiteitsattest is mandatory for all rental properties. A municipal inspector verifies compliance with the Flemish Housing Code standards. Without this certificate, the property cannot be legally rented.
  • Wallonia: a permis de location (rental permit) is required for small rental units and divided properties. It certifies compliance with minimum safety and habitability standards.
  • Brussels: the attestation de controle de conformite is part of the Housing Code compliance system. The regional housing inspection can check any rental property.

How it works

Inspection. A certified inspector visits the property and checks: electrical safety, gas installations, ventilation, natural light, minimum room sizes, structural stability, fire safety (smoke detectors), dampness.

Validity. Typically valid for 10 years in Flanders, or until the next letting in Wallonia.

Non-compliance. A property that fails inspection may be declared uninhabitable. The landlord must carry out remedial works and apply for a new inspection before letting.

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Good to know
In Flanders, renting a property without a valid conformiteitsattest is a criminal offence. The landlord risks fines and the tenant can request lease termination and compensation.

Practical example

Jan wants to rent his apartment in Antwerp. He requests a conformiteitsattest from the municipality. The inspector notes 3 deficiencies: missing smoke detectors, inadequate ventilation in the bathroom, and a non-compliant electrical outlet near the sink. Jan rectifies all three issues and passes the second inspection. Cost: 350 EUR in works + 100 EUR inspection fee.