Flatshare etiquette in Belgium

1. 1

   Establish a Clear Cleaning Schedule

   essential

   Discuss and create a rotation for common areas like the kitchen and bathroom. A written 'poetsbeurt' (cleaning schedule) avoids misunderstandings.

2. 2

   Respect Shared Spaces Daily

   essential

   Don't leave personal items or clutter in living rooms, hallways, or dining areas. Keep these zones tidy for everyone's immediate comfort.

3. 3

   Master Belgian Recycling Rules

   essential

   Understand the local 'PMD' (plastic, metal, drink cartons) blue bag, paper/cardboard, and glass sorting rules. Mis-sorting incurs fines for the household.

4. 4

   Clean Up After Cooking Immediately

   essential

   Wipe down counters, wash dishes, and clean stove-tops right after use. This prevents food residue and maintains hygiene for the next person.

5. 5

   Maintain Bathroom Hygiene

   essential

   Wipe down surfaces, remove hair from drains, and ensure the toilet is clean after each use. Shared bathrooms require extra vigilance.

6. 6

   Regularly Empty Bins

   recommended

   Designate a person or rotate responsibility for emptying general waste and recycling bins. Odors can quickly become an issue.

7. 7

   Communal Cleaning Supplies

   recommended

   Agree on a budget or rotation for purchasing shared cleaning products. Keeping essentials stocked benefits everyone in the flat.

8. 8

   Deep Clean Rotations

   nice-to-have

   Schedule periodic deep cleans for areas like the oven or refrigerator. This prevents build-up and ensures long-term cleanliness.

9. 9

   Outdoor Space Maintenance

   nice-to-have

   If applicable, discuss who is responsible for balcony, terrace, or garden upkeep. Keep it tidy for shared enjoyment.

1. 1

   Respect Quiet Hours

   essential

   Be mindful of noise, especially between 10 PM and 7 AM. Belgian neighbors and flatmates appreciate peace, particularly on 'quiet Sundays'.

2. 2

   Communicate Guest Visits

   essential

   Inform flatmates in advance if you plan to have guests over, especially for overnight stays or parties. This shows consideration and respect.

3. 3

   Keep Noise Levels Down

   essential

   Use headphones for music or gaming, and keep TV volume moderate, particularly when others are home or sleeping. Avoid 'burenlawaai' (neighbor noise).

4. 4

   Manage Social Gatherings

   essential

   Discuss party policies and invite limits with your flatmates. Ensure guests respect house rules and noise levels.

5. 5

   Respect Privacy and Personal Rooms

   essential

   Always knock before entering a flatmate's room and respect their personal space. Don't borrow items without explicit permission.

6. 6

   Overnight Guest Limits

   recommended

   Agree on a reasonable frequency or duration for overnight guests to prevent discomfort or overcrowding in shared spaces.

7. 7

   Inform About Longer Absences

   recommended

   Let your flatmates know if you'll be away for an extended period. This helps with security and shared responsibilities.

8. 8

   Consider Shared Workspace Noise

   nice-to-have

   If common areas are used for remote work, establish quiet times or designated zones to minimize distractions for others.

9. 9

   Pet Policy Discussion

   essential

   If considering a pet, it's crucial to have a unanimous agreement from all flatmates and the landlord, as per your 'contrat de colocation'.

1. 1

   Understand Your Contract Type

   essential

   Be familiar with your 'Contrat de colocation', 'Colocatiecontract', 'Bail étudiant', or 'Studentenhuurovereenkomst' terms regarding responsibilities and expenses.

2. 2

   Promptly Register at the Commune

   essential

   Complete your 'Déclaration d'arrivée' / 'Aangifte van aankomst' at your local commune/gemeente within 8 days. This is legally required for residents.

3. 3

   Fairly Divide Utility Bills

   essential

   Establish a clear system for splitting electricity, gas, water, and internet bills. A shared spreadsheet or app like Splitwise is highly recommended.

4. 4

   Communicate Financial Changes

   essential

   Inform flatmates immediately about any issues with paying rent or shared bills. Open communication prevents financial stress for all.

5. 5

   Discuss Shared Groceries

   essential

   Decide whether to buy individual groceries or share some staples. Clearly label personal food items in the fridge and pantry.

6. 6

   Set Up a House Account (Optional)

   nice-to-have

   Consider opening a joint bank account for shared expenses if all flatmates are comfortable. This simplifies bill payments and tracking.

7. 7

   Mail & Package Management

   recommended

   Agree on how to handle incoming mail and packages addressed to the flat. Ensure everyone has access to their post.

8. 8

   Moving Out Procedures

   essential

   Understand the notice period and cleaning expectations outlined in your 'contrat de colocation' or 'bail étudiant' before moving out.

9. 9

   Tenant's Insurance

   essential

   Ensure your household has adequate tenant's insurance (assurance locataire / huurdersverzekering) to cover potential damages or liabilities.

10. 10

    Damage & Repairs

    essential

    Report any damage to the landlord or designated flatmate promptly. Discuss how repair costs will be covered if responsibility is shared.

• Always clarify the official language of your 'contrat de colocation' or 'studentenhuurovereenkomst' (French or Dutch) to ensure full understanding of your rights and obligations in Belgium.
• Embrace the 'kot' culture if you're a student; it often involves a more communal and flexible living style, but clear communication remains paramount.
• When registering at the 'commune/gemeente', bring all required documents, including your tenancy agreement, to avoid multiple visits and delays in obtaining your Belgian ID card.
• Consider using a shared calendar for major events, guest visits, or even cleaning shifts. This visual aid can significantly reduce misunderstandings in a Belgian flatshare.
• Learn a few basic Dutch or French phrases related to household chores and greetings. It shows respect and can smooth over minor cultural differences with Belgian flatmates.

This information is specific to Belgium due to its unique administrative requirements, such as mandatory commune registration and specific contract types like 'contrat de colocation' or 'bail étudiant'. Furthermore, cultural nuances like the importance of quiet Sundays and regional linguistic differences heavily influence flatshare dynamics here.

• BrusselsNeighbourhoods and guides
• AntwerpNeighbourhoods and guides
• GhentNeighbourhoods and guides

• Rental contracts
• Tenant rights
• Deposit protection
• Registration guide
• Banking for expats
• Healthcare guide