Living well in a condominium: the key to harmonious cohabitation

Living in a condominium means sharing much more than a building: it means sharing a living environment. At l’Office des Propriétaires, we support co-owners, landlords and residents on a daily basis to ensure rigorous, transparent management in full compliance with Belgian law.

A well-managed condominium is built on two essential pillars:

• a clear framework (regulations and organisation)

• a responsible attitude from every occupant

Here are the key principles to ensure harmonious cohabitation within your building.

Condominium living in Belgium: a clear legal framework

In Belgium, condominium ownership is governed by the Civil Code.

Each building notably has:

1. Legal documents:

• the deed of co-ownership (basic deed)

• the internal rules and regulations

2. Governing bodies:

• a syndic (property manager) responsible for day-to-day management;

• a general assembly acting as the decision-making body.

Compliance with this legal framework, adopted decisions and internal rules is mandatory for everyone, both co-owners and tenants.

Preserving peace and quiet: managing noise disturbances

Noise is the primary source of tension in apartment buildings.

A few simple best practices:

• avoid slamming doors;

• keep television and music at a moderate volume;

• avoid using noisy appliances in the evening;

• inform neighbours in advance in case of a party or renovation works.

As a general rule, quiet hours must be respected between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. (unless specific municipal regulations apply).

Preventive dialogue often avoids the need for formal intervention by the syndic.

Regarding pets, repeated barking may constitute abnormal neighbourhood disturbance. The same applies when an animal moves freely in common areas or on a balcony and causes inconvenience. In such cases, the pet owner or occupant may be held liable.

Use of household appliances in an apartment

In a shared building, solidarity also applies to everyday organisation.

Recommended hours:

• on weekdays: between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.;

• on weekends: between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Even when benefiting from off-peak electricity tariffs, running appliances at night may disturb neighbours.

An anti-vibration mat and a moderate spin speed significantly reduce noise disturbances.

Where specific internal rules exist, the internal regulations prevail.

Common areas: shared spaces, not private areas

Entrance halls, staircases, lifts, parking areas and corridors are common areas belonging collectively to all co-owners.

They must:

• remain clean;

• remain permanently unobstructed;

• be used in accordance with their intended purpose.

Storing bicycles, strollers, furniture or rubbish bags in these areas is prohibited, except in designated spaces (bike room, waste room).

These rules also stem from fire safety and evacuation requirements.

Pets must be kept on a leash in common areas.

Tenants’ responsibilities

Even if not a co-owner, a tenant must comply with the deed of co-ownership and the internal regulations.

Their obligations include:

• respecting the peace and quiet of the building;

• keeping common areas clean;

• avoiding obstruction of shared spaces;

• promptly reporting any damage.

In case of misconduct, the occupant remains responsible for their actions. The landlord may, however, intervene within the framework of the contractual relationship binding them to the tenant.

Waste management: a collective responsibility

Temporarily leaving a rubbish bag in the entrance hall is not trivial.

It may:

• cause unpleasant odours;

• attract pests;

• generate additional costs for the condominium.

It is important to dispose of waste directly in the designated area, comply with regional sorting rules (Brussels, Wallonia or Flanders) and respect municipal collection schedules.

A clean condominium enhances property value and improves everyone’s comfort.

Where can official documents be obtained?

The deed of co-ownership and the internal regulations can be obtained from the syndic, via a secure extranet (where available), or from the notary when purchasing a unit.

At l’Office des Propriétaires, we ensure clear and structured access to these documents for all co-owners.

The garage in a condominium: rules to follow

A private garage is intended for parking a vehicle, unless otherwise specified.

Generally prohibited are:

• any use inconsistent with its purpose, including unauthorised storage;

• significant mechanical activities;

• structural modifications without prior approval from the general assembly.

Any alteration requires formal approval.

Failure to comply with the regulations: what procedure applies?

In case of non-compliance:

• a reminder is usually sent by the syndic;

• a formal notice may follow if the situation persists;

• the general assembly may decide on additional measures;

• as a last resort, the justice of the peace may be seized.

The objective always remains an amicable resolution and the preservation of a peaceful living environment.

A peaceful condominium, a valued property

At l’Office des Propriétaires, we firmly believe that rigorous management and clear communication are the keys to a harmonious condominium.

Respecting the rules, maintaining dialogue and acting responsibly help to:

• preserve property value;

• avoid conflicts;

• ensure a high-quality living environment for all.

Because a well-maintained condominium is, above all, a well-managed condominium.