In Belgium, the rental guarantee is an amount deposited by the tenant with the landlord to cover potential damages or unpaid rent related to the tenancy. Since Belgium's sixth state reform in 2014, rental guarantee rules are set at a regional level, leading to significant differences between Wallonia, Brussels, and Flanders. This article outlines the key differences regarding maximum amounts, accepted forms of guarantees, and available financial support.
Rental Guarantee in Wallonia
Amounts and Types of Guarantees
In Wallonia, rental guarantees typically take two main forms: a deposit in a blocked bank account or a bank guarantee. When deposited in a blocked bank account, the maximum amount cannot exceed two months' rent. However, in the case of a bank guarantee, usually secured with assistance from the Public Center for Social Welfare (CPAS), the amount can reach up to three months' rent.
Financial Support for Rental Guarantees
For individuals facing financial difficulties, the Walloon Region offers interest-free loans covering the full rental guarantee amount. Additionally, CPAS can provide direct assistance either by advancing the necessary funds or offering a guarantee directly to the landlord. These measures improve access to housing for tenants with low incomes.
Rental Guarantee in Brussels
Amounts and Types of Guarantees
In the Brussels-Capital Region, conditions for rental guarantees closely mirror those in Wallonia concerning deposits in blocked bank accounts, capped at two months' rent. However, bank guarantees can also reach up to three months' rent, often facilitated by CPAS or other social welfare organizations in Brussels.
Specific Aid in Brussels
Brussels also offers tailored solutions for tenants facing financial difficulties. The Brussels Housing Fund provides interest-free loans covering the entire rental guarantee under specific income conditions. Another unique mechanism in Brussels is the BRUGAL Fund, which directly advances the guarantee into a bank account under the tenant’s name, with flexible and situation-specific repayment terms.
Rental Guarantee in Flanders
Amounts and Specific Forms
Unlike Wallonia and Brussels, Flanders sets a uniform maximum amount of three months' rent for rental guarantees, regardless of the chosen method. Thus, whether the guarantee is set via a blocked account, a bank guarantee, intervention by CPAS, or even through a personal guarantee, the maximum amount remains the same.
Financial Support in Flanders
Flanders provides financial assistance through the Flemish Housing Fund, which grants interest-free loans to tenants for setting up the rental guarantee. These loans can cover the full amount required, facilitating housing access for financially disadvantaged households.
Summary Table of Regional Differences
| Region | Maximum Amount (Blocked Account) | Maximum Amount (Bank Guarantee) | Main Available Support |
| Wallonia | 2 months | 3 months | Interest-free loan, CPAS |
| Brussels-Capital | 2 months | 3 months | Housing Fund, BRUGAL Fund |
| Flanders | 3 months | 3 months | Flemish Housing Fund |
The rental guarantee in Belgium features notable differences depending on the region. Wallonia and Brussels share similarities regarding the maximum guarantee amounts based on the chosen guarantee form, each offering region-specific assistance tailored to their populations. In Flanders, simplicity is prioritized with a uniform cap and considerable flexibility regarding guarantee methods.
