Student housing and "kot" in Belgium: guide for parents
Guide for parents on student housing (kot) in Belgium. Student lease, rental deposit, rights, prices, and practical advice.
The student lease in Belgium
Student accommodation (kot) in Belgium is subject to specific rules that vary by Region. The student lease is generally a short-term lease (10 months or 1 year).
Rules by Region
| Region | Specific student lease | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | Yes (Brussels Housing Code) | 12 months |
| Wallonia | Yes (Walloon decree 2018) | 10-12 months |
| Flanders | Yes (Vlaams Woninghuurdecreet) | 12 months |
Types of student rooms (kots)
| Type | Feature | Average price 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Classic kot | Room + shared facilities | 350-500 EUR |
| Studio | Room + kitchenette + private bathroom | 500-750 EUR |
| Residence kot | Services included (internet, cleaning) | 550-850 EUR |
| Shared house | Private room + common areas | 400-600 EUR |
Rental deposit and parental guarantee
The rental deposit
The rental deposit is mandatory and capped:
| Region | Maximum amount | Account |
|---|---|---|
| Wallonia | 2 months’ rent | Blocked account |
| Brussels | 3 months’ rent | Blocked account |
| Flanders | 3 months’ rent | Blocked account |
The parental guarantee
Parents can act as guarantor for their student child. The parental guarantee is a personal commitment covering: rent payment in case of default, rental damage at end of lease, unpaid charges.
Insist that the guarantee be limited in amount and in time (duration of the lease). An unlimited guarantee is disproportionate and can be challenged before the judge.
Rights and obligations
Student’s rights
- Occupy a dwelling that meets habitability standards
- Benefit from an entry and exit property inventory
- Peaceful enjoyment of the dwelling
- Information on charges and their allocation
- Early termination under conditions set by the Region
Student’s obligations
- Pay rent and charges on time
- Maintain the dwelling (minor repairs)
- Comply with house rules
- Take out civil liability insurance
- Return the dwelling in good condition
Landlord’s obligations
- Deliver a compliant and habitable dwelling
- Carry out major repairs
- Register the lease (free)
- Provide the EPC certificate
Tips for parents
Before signing
- Visit the dwelling with your child
- Check compliance (electricity, safety, humidity)
- Read the lease carefully before signing
- Insist on a detailed entry property inventory with photos
- Check that the landlord has a rental permit (Wallonia)
During the rental
- Ensure your child has civil liability insurance
- Monitor regular rent payment
- Encourage your child to report any problem promptly
- Keep all documents (lease, property inventory, correspondence)
At the end of the lease
- Participate in the exit property inventory if possible
- Challenge unjustified deductions from the deposit
- Comply with the notice period for termination To create a compliant student lease, use our online lease generator and see our guides on tenant’s rights.
Frequently asked questions
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The adult student signs the lease in their own name. If the student is a minor, the parents sign as legal representatives. The parents can stand as guarantors without being tenants.
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The rental deposit is capped at 2 months' rent in Wallonia and 3 months in Brussels and Flanders. It must be deposited in a blocked account in the student's name.
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A student lease (1-year short-term lease) can only be terminated early if the lease provides for it. In Wallonia, the specific student lease allows early termination with 3 months' notice.