In Belgium, when you buy a house, insurance is not legally mandatory — but in practice, it’s almost always required.
Here’s the breakdown:
1️⃣ Fire/Home Insurance (Woningverzekering / Assurance habitation)
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Not required by law, but banks and mortgage lenders nearly always demand it if you take a loan.
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Protects the building and contents against fire, water damage, storm, etc.
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If you buy without a mortgage, you can skip it legally — but it’s strongly advised for protection.
2️⃣ Mortgage-Linked Life Insurance (Schuldsaldoverzekering / Assurance solde restant dû)
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Also not a legal requirement, but banks often make it a condition for approving your mortgage.
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Pays off the remaining loan if the borrower dies, protecting the family and the bank.
3️⃣ Other Optional Insurances
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Legal protection insurance (for disputes with builders, neighbors, etc.)
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Liability insurance (covers damage caused to others)
✅ Summary:
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Legally: You can own a house without insurance.
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Practically: If you have a mortgage, expect the bank to require fire insurance and often life insurance.
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Advice: Even if buying without a loan, fire insurance is wise — damage costs can be huge.