🤝Flatshare Etiquette in Belgium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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