Moving into a new rental in Belgium: all steps
Checklist and steps when moving into a new rental property in Belgium.
Sommaire · 4 sections Reduire ▴
- 01 Before moving
- 02 Moving day
- 03 After moving in
- 04 Complete checklist
Before moving
D-30: administrative steps
| Step | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Sign the lease | D-30 |
| Set up the rental deposit | D-30 |
| Take out home insurance | D-15 |
| Notify the former landlord (notice) | Per lease terms |
| Notify energy suppliers | D-15 |
D-15: logistics preparation
- Compare and book a removal company (or van hire)
- Order boxes and packing materials
- Notify the post office (mail forwarding)
- Inform your employer of the address change
Moving day
Move-in inventory
The move-in inventory is the first mandatory step:
- Walk through each room with the landlord
- Note the condition of each element (walls, floors, equipment)
- Take dated photographs
- Sign the document in two copies
Meter readings
| Meter | Action |
|---|---|
| Electricity | Read and note the number |
| Gas | Read and note the number |
| Water | Read and note the number |
These readings separate your consumption from that of the previous tenant.
Key handover
Receive all keys and access badges. Check that each key works (front door, letterbox, garage, cellar).
After moving in
Week 1
| Step | Contact |
|---|---|
| Address change at the municipality | Municipality of new address |
| Activate energy supplier | Chosen supplier |
| Activate internet/phone | Provider |
| Address change for insurance | Insurer |
| Address change for bank | Bank |
Month 1
- Address change on identity card (free)
- Notify employer / health insurance fund
- Update vehicle registration plate (if changing Region)
- Register with a GP if necessary
Complete checklist
Mandatory
- Lease signed and registered
- Move-in inventory completed
- Rental deposit set up
- Home insurance taken out
- Address change at municipality (within 8 days)
- Energy meters transferred
Recommended
- Photographs of the property’s condition on arrival
- Copy of the co-ownership rules (if applicable)
- Contact details of the landlord and management agent
- Contact details of emergency services (plumber, electrician)
- Local police number
Documents to keep
- Original lease
- Move-in inventory
- Rental deposit certificate
- Home insurance policy
- Meter readings from moving day
To create your lease, use our online lease generator. Also see our guide on tenant rights.