Renting to Students in Ghent: What Landlords Need to Know

Why Is Student Co-Living Restricted in Ghent?

The City of Ghent does not generally allow students to share a private rental house. This rule is designed to protect single-family homes, which are primarily intended for permanent residents.

Due to the high demand for housing, Ghent faces a shortage of private rental properties for both residents and students. To address this imbalance, the city limits the use of family homes for student co-living.

At the same time, the student housing market continues to grow, with new student residences developed by universities and private investors.

When Is It Allowed for Students to Live Together?

Although restrictions exist, there are several exceptions where student co-living is permitted.

1. All Students Registered at the Property

Students can live together if:

• all tenants are listed in the lease agreement
• all students are officially domiciled at the address
• only one doorbell is installed at the entrance

However, obtaining domicile status in Ghent as a student can be challenging. Students must be financially independent and no longer dependent on their parents. This may also impact child benefits, which are then paid directly to the student instead of the parents.

2. Living with a Sibling

Students who rent a property together with a brother or sister can be considered a household.

• no domicile registration is required
• the lease must be a student agreement in the students’ names, not their parents’

3. Two Students Living as a Couple

Two students can live together if:

• they rent a property with one bedroom
• they live together as a couple
• no domicile registration is required

Second Residence Tax in Ghent

A second residence tax applies when tenants are not officially domiciled in the property.

This tax is paid by the property owner, but is often passed on to tenants. It is calculated annually per property without official registration on January 1 of the tax year.

Indicative rates:

What Happens If the Rules Are Not Respected?

The authorities in Ghent actively monitor compliance with these regulations.

• during a first inspection, the landlord receives a formal warning
• tenants are usually allowed to stay until the end of the academic year
• a second violation may lead to an official report and potential legal action

This can result in fines and legal consequences for the landlord.

Managing Student Rentals in Ghent

Renting property to students in Ghent requires a clear understanding of local regulations. Non-compliance can lead to financial penalties and legal risks.

To better understand how local regulations impact your rental investment, read our blog article “Why Hire a Property Manager for Your Investment Property?”.

Invest with Confidence with TREVI

At TREVI Rental Management, we help landlords navigate complex local rules and manage their rental properties efficiently. From legal compliance to tenant management, we ensure your property is protected and profitable.

Contact us for more information