Brussels-specific legal framework
Rent indexation in Brussels is governed by the Brussels Housing Code and several successive ordinances:
- Ordinance of 14 October 2022: first capping measure. Indexation prohibited for EPC F, G and properties without a certificate for one year.
- Ordinance of 13 October 2023: extension and adjustment. Introduction of the correction factor for rent indexation in Brussels based on the EPC class.
- Measures of 14 October 2023: clarifications on the calculation for ongoing leases.
- Rules applicable in 2026: the correction factor is maintained and adjusted annually.
Indexation remains possible for most leases, but proportionate to the energy performance of the property. For the general framework: rent indexation pillar guide.
Conditions for indexation in Brussels
- Written and registered lease: the lease must have been in force for at least one year.
- Indexation clause or primary residence lease (indexation by operation of law, as provided by the Civil Code).
- EPC compatible with the Brussels rules in force.
The request must be made in writing to the tenant with the calculation details and the contract anniversary date. Indexation is not retroactive beyond three months.
Rent indexation formula Brussels with correction factor
New rent = Base rent x (New health index / Starting health index) x EPC correction factor
- Base rent: the amount at the time of signing the lease.
- Starting health index: the index for the month preceding the signing.
- New health index: the index for the month preceding the anniversary of entry into force.
- Correction factor: 100% for EPC A/B/C, reduced rate for EPC D/E, 0% for EPC F/G.
The exact factor varies each year. For automatic calculation with 2026 values: indexation calculator (includes Brussels rules). For the detailed method: calculation guide.
Rent indexation in Brussels without EPC
Since 2022, a property without a valid EPC certificate is treated as EPC F or G:
- No indexation possible as long as no certificate is produced.
- Once the certificate is issued, the landlord can index according to the class obtained.
- Retroactivity remains limited to three months after the request.
Landlord in Brussels? Obtain your EPC certificate before the lease anniversary date. See also EPC and indexation guide.
Rent indexation freeze in Brussels: history and current status
- 14 October 2022 to 13 October 2023: total freeze for EPC F, G and properties without a certificate.
- From 14 October 2023: partial freeze, replaced by a correction factor.
- 2025 and 2026: the total freeze is no longer in force. The most energy-inefficient EPC ratings remain subject to zero or very reduced indexation via the correction factor.
The rules change regularly: always check the version in force on the anniversary date. 3-region comparison — Indexation in Wallonia.
Calculate rent indexation in Brussels: the simple method
To calculate rent indexation in Brussels in 2026:
- Find the date of entry into force of the lease.
- Look up the two health indices on Statbel.
- Apply the correction factor according to your EPC to calculate the corrected indexation.
For a step-by-step guide: calculation guide or directly the rent calculator.
The result is the new monthly rent from the contract anniversary date. Notify the tenant by letter: indexation letter template. Tenant verification: verification tool.
This page covers only the Brussels-Capital Region. For Wallonia: indexation in Wallonia. For a lease in Brussels.
Frequently asked questions
Brussels indexation rules in 2024?
The correction factor from the ordinance of 13 October 2023 applied fully. Partial indexation for energy-inefficient properties.
Brussels indexation in 2025 and 2026?
Correction factor extended. EPC A-C index normally, others face a reduction.
Differences with Wallonia?
Yes. The Walloon Region applies its own caps (decree of 15 March 2018). Correction factors are not identical.
Can the tenant challenge?
Yes if the calculation is wrong or the wrong factor was used. Verification tool.