Building a strong rental application as a tenant
How to put together a strong application to find a rental property in Belgium?
Sommaire · 4 sections Reduire ▴
Documents to provide
Essential documents
| Document | Mandatory | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Identity card | Yes | Identification |
| Last 3 payslips | Yes | Solvency |
| Employment contract | Recommended | Stability |
| Latest tax return | Recommended | Overall income |
| Reference from former landlord | Recommended | Reliability |
Additional documents
- Employer certificate (if on a fixed-term or temporary contract)
- Guarantor / parental surety (if income is insufficient)
- Proof of savings for the rental deposit
- Certificate of non-indebtedness (optional)
What the landlord cannot ask for
- Criminal record extract
- Health insurance certificate
- Information on health status
- Information on private life (religion, orientation)
Presenting the application
Recommended structure
- Cover page: name, contact details, target property
- Cover letter: introduce yourself in a few lines
- Identity documents: front and back copy
- Proof of income: payslips, contract
- References: contact details of the former landlord
Format
| Format | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Paper file | Classic, tangible |
| Digital PDF | Quick to send by email |
| Link to online file | Modern, always available |
A well-presented application demonstrates your seriousness and organisation.
Discrimination and remedies
Protected criteria
Belgian law prohibits discrimination in access to housing on the basis of:
- Ethnic origin or nationality
- Disability or health status
- Sexual orientation
- Religion or beliefs
- Age, sex, marital status
- Financial situation (replacement income)
In case of discrimination
- Document the facts (listing, written exchanges)
- Report to the Interfederal Centre for Equal Opportunities (Unia)
- File a complaint with the police
- The judge can order the landlord to pay damages
For the legal aspects, see our guide on tenant rights.
Tips for standing out
Before the viewing
- Prepare your application in advance (ready on the day of the viewing)
- Research the neighbourhood and the property
- Arrive on time
- Ask relevant questions (charges, works, neighbourhood)
During the viewing
- Be courteous and professional
- Show your interest without excessive pressure
- Hand over your complete application to the landlord
- Take notes and photographs for comparison
After the viewing
- Send a confirmation email expressing interest
- Stay available for follow-up questions
- Prepare the rental deposit if you are selected
- Read the lease carefully before signing
To create a compliant lease, the landlord can use our online lease generator.