Is fire insurance mandatory for rentals in Belgium?
Is fire insurance legally mandatory for rentals in Belgium? Legal framework by Region, minimum coverage, average price and consequences of not having it.
The legal obligation for fire insurance
In Belgium, fire insurance is not legally imposed by any specific law on tenants. However, the contractual reality is different: in Wallonia and Brussels, virtually all leases include a mandatory fire insurance clause. In Flanders, the Woninghuurdecreet does not impose it by default, but the landlord can require it in the lease.
The legal basis is the tenant’s presumption of liability (Article 1733 of the Civil Code): in case of fire, the tenant is presumed responsible unless they prove force majeure or an external cause. This presumption makes fire insurance practically indispensable.
For the detailed analysis of whether fire insurance is truly mandatory, see our guide on fire insurance for tenants: mandatory or not.
What fire insurance covers
The minimum coverage includes:
- Tenant liability: damage to the rented building caused by fire, explosion or water
- Neighbouring risks: damage from a fire that started in a neighbouring property
- Electrical damage: short circuits, power surges
Extended coverage (multirisque/comprehensive) adds:
- Contents cover (personal belongings)
- Civil liability to neighbours
- Water damage
- Theft and vandalism
- Glass breakage
- Storm and natural disasters
- Temporary rehousing
Price and comparison
Average annual cost for a tenant:
| Property type | Budget | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio (below 40 m2) | EUR 90-120 | EUR 130-160 | EUR 170-220 |
| 1-2 bedroom (40-70 m2) | EUR 120-160 | EUR 160-220 | EUR 220-300 |
| 3+ bedroom (above 70 m2) | EUR 160-200 | EUR 200-280 | EUR 280-400 |
Factors affecting the premium: area, floor, building age, location, EPC score, chosen excess, and coverage level.
For a detailed comparison, see our home insurance comparison guide.
Risks without fire insurance
If a fire occurs and the tenant has no insurance:
- Presumed liable under Article 1733 of the Civil Code
- Must compensate the landlord for all property damage (EUR 50,000-500,000+)
- Must compensate neighbours for damage (civil liability)
- May face lease termination for breach of the insurance clause
- May face personal bankruptcy if the amounts are unmanageable
Practical tips
- Subscribe before signing the lease: the landlord will ask for the certificate on signing day
- Choose comprehensive coverage (multirisque) rather than fire-only: the price difference is minimal
- Evaluate your contents honestly: under-insurance reduces compensation proportionally
- Keep the certificate accessible: the landlord may request it annually
- Update when moving: transfer or switch your policy when you change address
To create a compliant lease with proper insurance clauses, use our online lease generator. For more information, consult our guide on tenant home insurance.