2017 ordinance and student leases
The Brussels ordinance of 27 July 2017 introduced a specific regime for student leases, distinct from general tenancy law and the standard primary residence lease:
- Duration of 12 months, renewable (aligned with the academic year).
- 3-month notice period for the student at any time.
- Maximum rental deposit of 3 months.
- Mandatory mention of “student lease” in the contract.
- Proof of enrolment at a higher education institution.
The regime applies in the Brussels-Capital Region to rental properties primarily intended for a full-time enrolled student.
For the general framework: student lease pillar.
Types of student leases in Brussels
Several types exist:
- Specific student lease: 2017 ordinance regime, the most suitable option.
- Short-term lease (< 3 years): an alternative when the landlord does not wish to use the student regime.
- Standard primary residence lease: rare for students.
- Shared housing lease with cohabitation pact: when several students share the property.
The recommended type is the one offering the best flexibility for the student.
Duration, renewal and deposit
Standard duration of 12 months. Annual renewal is possible, without exceeding 3 cumulative years — otherwise the lease is reclassified as a 9-year lease. Tacit renewal is possible if stipulated; a written addendum is required for modifications.
Maximum rental deposit of 3 months’ rent (vs 2 in Wallonia), held in a blocked account in the student’s name. Refund within 2 months after the exit property inspection.
Notice period and termination
By the student
- 3-month notice period at any time by registered letter.
- Decreasing indemnity for early departure (1 month in the first year).
- No indemnity at the end of the academic year upon providing proof.
By the landlord
- 6-month notice period, legal grounds required (personal occupation or major works).
Bilingualism FR / NL
As Brussels is officially bilingual, the lease can be drafted in French or Dutch. This flexibility is useful for international students (Erasmus, ULB, VUB). A bilingual template is often recommended.
The 19 municipalities and student market
Brussels universities are concentrated around several hubs:
- Ixelles: ULB Solbosch, high demand from French-speaking students.
- Etterbeek: ULB Plaine, science campus.
- Saint-Gilles: close to Midi Station, mix of students and young professionals.
- City of Brussels: centre, international students and schools.
- Anderlecht: Erasmus Hospital, medicine.
- Woluwe: VUB Dutch-speaking campus, UCLouvain Saint-Louis.
Rents vary: €450–700/month for a basic room on the outskirts, €700–1,100/month in the centre, €900–1,400/month for a fully equipped studio.
Student housing: university vs private
- University halls (ULB, VUB residences, etc.): specific internal rules, allocation through the university, capped rents.
- Private student housing: individual landlord, standard student lease under the 2017 ordinance.
Private student housing accounts for the majority of the Brussels rental supply.
Market stakeholders
- University housing services (ULB Logement, VUB Huisvesting): lists of approved student rooms.
- Specialised online platforms for students (Immo-Student, Brik, Kotplanet).
- Estate agencies: some also handle the student segment. Standard commission of 1–3 months’ rent.
For a furnished room through a private landlord, the process is direct and without intermediaries.
Lease registration
Every student lease in Brussels must be registered with the FPS Finance within 2 months. Free of charge via MyRent. Without registration, the student can leave without notice or indemnity. Each renewal must also be registered.
Brussels vs Wallonia differences
| Criterion | Brussels | Wallonia |
|---|---|---|
| Legal framework | Ordinance 2017 | Decree 2018 |
| Maximum deposit | 3 months | 2 months |
| Standard duration | 12 months | 12 months |
| Student notice period | 3 months | 2 months |
| Languages | FR + NL | FR |
| Co-tenancy pact | Recommended | Mandatory |
See the Brussels lease hub for all lease types. For indexation: rent indexation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum deposit in Brussels?
3 months’ rent, held in a blocked account in the student’s name.
Can the lease be in Dutch?
Yes, both languages are official.
Do I need to be enrolled to sign?
Yes, proof of enrolment must be attached. Without enrolment, a standard lease applies.
Notice period to leave?
3 months by registered letter, with a 1-month indemnity in the first year.
Is registration mandatory?
Yes, within 2 months via MyRent. Free of charge.
Do university halls fall under the 2017 ordinance?
No, they have their own internal rules. Only private student housing falls under the ordinance.