🛠️ What Are Tenants Responsible For in a Student Studio?

Blocked sink? Loose light fixture? Minor wear and tear?

Living in a student studio also means taking care of small things yourself from time to time — just like in any private home. The good news? Most common issues can easily be solved with a little know-how and basic maintenance.

Here’s a short explanation of who does what — and how the landlord can still help when needed.

📋   Tenant Responsibilities – Know What You’re Accountable For

According to the Flemish Housing Rental Decree, tenants — including students — are responsible for small maintenance and daily upkeep of their rented space. The official “lijst van huurderverplichtingen” (tenant responsibility list) clearly states what falls under the tenant’s liability.

💡 In short: if it blocks because of how you use it, it’s up to you to fix it.
Want to know exactly what you’re responsible for as a student tenant? You can find the full list on the Wonen Vlaanderen website. Make sure you’re informed — it saves stress (and money) later!

• You must pay the rent on time.
• You are responsible for maintenance and minor repairs.
• You must use the property as a prudent and responsible tenant (like a “good householder”) and in line with the agreed purpose.
• You have a duty to report: this means you must inform the landlord in a timely manner about any damage that the landlord is responsible for repairing, so they can take action quickly.
• You must furnish the property adequately and return it in good condition at the end of the rental period.

📜 What the Flemish Housing Rules Say

According to the Flemish Housing Rental Decree, tenants are expected to carry out small repairs and regular upkeep themselves.
Here are some examples:

• Unclogging drains
• Replacing light bulbs
• Keeping the space clean and ventilated
• Using appliances with care
• …

All of this is clearly outlined in the official “lijst van huurderverplichtingen” (tenant responsibility list).
https://www.kuleuven.be/stuvo/kot/pdf/hvd/the-flemish-housing-rental-decree2019.pdf

💡 So for example: a clogged kitchen sink caused by food residue or grease is considered a tenant’s responsibility.

📎 Want to read the full list?
👉 Wonen Vlaanderen – Staat van de woning en onderhoudsverplichtingen

Here’s the link tot he official regulation https://www.huurvragen.be/images/documenten/Lijst_Kleine_Herstellingen.pdf

🔄 How to Handle It – Simple Steps

In practice, this is how things usually work:

1. Tenants take care of basic maintenance first. This means keeping things clean, using them properly, and trying simple solutions (like the bicarbonate + vinegar trick for clogged sinks).
2. If something doesn’t work or won’t get fixed easily, the tenant checks with the landlord for advice or support.
3. If the tenant can’t solve it on their own, the landlord will look at it during the next scheduled building visit, or — if urgent — arrange for a technician to come sooner.

This approach keeps everything fair and clear — while avoiding unnecessary stress or costs.

🤝 A Supportive but Respectful Approach

Even though the law says tenants are responsible for these small matters, many landlords are still happy to help when possible — especially if the tenant has already tried to solve the problem in a responsible way.

That said, this support isn’t automatic. It’s not something a landlord is obliged to provide — and it should never be taken for granted.
In case of recurring problems caused by poor maintenance or incorrect use, the landlord will simply follow the usual procedure:
🧾 the repair may be passed on to the tenant.

But don’t worry — no one expects tenants to be experts. Just do your best, take good care of your space, and communicate respectfully. That’s already a big step in the right direction.

🙋 Need advice or not sure what to do? Just reach out to the landlord.
Most are happy to help where they can — especially if the tenant is proactive and respectful.

👉 More tips under the Pracitcal Information for your Stay section