Intergenerational housing in Belgium: legal framework
Intergenerational housing in Belgium: legal framework, tax advantages, forms of co-habitation, and rules by Region.
Definition and forms of intergenerational housing
Intergenerational housing brings together people from different generations who are not part of the same household under one roof. The aim is to create solidarity: an elderly person benefits from the proximity of a younger person, who in return benefits from a reduced rent.
Common forms
| Form | Description |
|---|---|
| Kangaroo housing | Independent dwelling within an existing house (often a ground-floor studio) |
| Intergenerational shared tenancy | Room with a senior, shared common areas |
| Intergenerational cohousing | Private dwellings + common spaces in a building |
| Each form involves different rules regarding the lease and planning. |
Legal framework by Region
Wallonia
Wallonia introduced the concept of kangaroo housing in the Walloon Housing Code. It allows creating an independent living unit within an existing dwelling for an elderly or disabled person.
Brussels
Brussels has no specific framework. Intergenerational housing is formalised via a standard lease or precarious occupation agreement.
Flanders
Flanders recognises zorgwonen (care housing): an independent dwelling created in or near an existing dwelling for a person needing care. The planning permit is simplified.
| Region | Specific framework | Planning advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Wallonia | Kangaroo housing | Simplified permit under conditions |
| Brussels | None | Standard permit |
| Flanders | Zorgwonen | Permit exemption under conditions |
Planning and permits
When is a permit required
Creating an independent dwelling within an existing house generally requires a planning permit. Exceptions vary by Region:
- Wallonia: simplified permit for kangaroo housing if certain conditions are met
- Flanders: permit exemption for zorgwonen (if no major external modification)
- Brussels: standard permit required
Technical requirements
The created dwelling must meet habitability standards: minimum area, recommended independent access, own sanitary and kitchen facilities, electrical and gas compliance, and adequate sound insulation. For EPC aspects, the new dwelling must have its own energy certificate.
Practical setup
Formalising the arrangement
- Draft a lease or precarious occupation agreement
- Carry out an entry property inventory
- Define private and common spaces
- Set the financial terms (rent, charges, maintenance)
- Take out suitable insurance
Points to watch
- Tax impact: two separate households = two tax assessments. Check the property tax consequences
- Social benefits: plan separate leases to avoid fiscal cohabitation
- Co-ownership: if the property is in a co-ownership, check that the regulations allow division
Financial grants
Some Regions offer grants for intergenerational housing conversion. Check with your municipality or regional housing service. To create the lease, use our online lease generator.
Frequently asked questions
-
Intergenerational housing is a form of co-habitation where people from different generations share one building, each having a private space and sharing certain common areas.
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Yes, in most cases. Dividing a house into two separate dwellings requires a planning permit. Rules vary according to the Region and municipality.
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It depends on the legal form. If co-habitants share the same fiscal household, social benefits may be affected. Separate leases or occupancy agreements limit this risk.