The legal starting point
Repair responsibility depends on the cause, lease and regional rules. Tenant-caused damage, normal wear, age and building defects differ. Report problems promptly and preserve evidence. Damage appearing during a tenancy does not by itself determine who pays.
Documents to gather
The lease and amendments, signature and starting dates, inventory, dated photographs and correspondence. Identify the property’s region.
Your next step
Write a short timeline and state the outcome you seek. Request a written explanation if an amount or decision seems wrong. Before signing, acknowledging a debt or allowing a deadline to pass, check the consequences for your circumstances. An amicable step does not automatically suspend a statutory deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Is a guide enough to decide?
It helps prepare your next step. Dates, documents and specific rules can change the answer. Consult the sources below and have decisive issues assessed.
Sources and useful texts
Sources consulted on 27 September 2026
General information about Belgian law. Region, date of events and your circumstances can change the applicable rule.
Text version ↓