To begin with
Start with the risks you find difficult to bear yourself. Then ask which policy actually covers them.
"Building up cautiously is not the same as suspecting everyone."
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Fire and water: your tenant's liability
Before starting your tenancy, obtain confirmation that your liability for fire and water damage is insured. Under the Flemish main residence tenancy under the Housing Rent Decree, this coverage is mandatory. The owner's insurance does not automatically replace your protection. Your own furniture and appliances require separate verification of household contents coverage.
The landlord has fire insurance. Is that sufficient?
Not automatically. Ask about your liability, any waiver of recourse, damage to neighbours and your own household contents. Have the insurer confirm which risks still need separate coverage.
Family insurance: damage to someone else
A family liability insurance is usually not legally mandatory, but can be important if you cause damage to others in your private life. Think of an accident as a cyclist. What is covered, who is co-insured and which excess applies depends on the policy.
Is my laptop insured if I drop it myself?
Family insurance is primarily intended for your liability towards others. Damage to your own belongings is normally not covered. Check whether another policy covers this risk and whether that cost is worthwhile.
Car: declare the actual driver
For a car participating in traffic, Motor Liability Insurance is mandatory. It covers damage to third parties within legal and contractual limits. Damage to your own vehicle and injuries to the liable driver require separate coverage. Report accurately who usually drives and what you use the car for.
Can insurance be in my parents' name to pay less?
The information provided must correspond to reality. Report who the usual driver is. Incorrect statements can have serious consequences for coverage and recourse by the insurer.
Legal assistance, bicycle and travel
Legal assistance can help with certain conflicts, within the scope of the policy. Check whether it is already included in your motor or family insurance. For an expensive bicycle or travel, additional coverage may be appropriate, but compare exclusions, excess and theft conditions.
My insurer refuses a claim. What now?
Request the reasoning and the exact policy clause in writing. First use the internal complaints department. If the dispute remains, you can contact the Insurance Ombudsman.
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Where do I start if I become independent for the first time?
Start with what will change soon: your home, work, income or family situation. Open the related guide and use the checklist to make a list of what is arranged and what still needs an answer.
Must I arrange everything at once?
First distinguish between arrangements with a date and issues you still want to investigate. Keep contracts and confirmations together. Ask the relevant service which information they need and note the next step.
Can I involve a parent or trusted person?
You can review the information together and prepare your questions. Indicate who you want to involve in a conversation. It helps if you formulate in advance what you want to achieve and what you have doubts about.
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