Building Permits for Renovation in Flanders & Antwerp

1. The legal framework in Flanders and Antwerp municipality

In Flanders, planning and environmental permissions are merged under the single 'Omgevingsvergunning' (Integrated Environmental/Building Permit). Beyond general regional regulations, the City of Antwerp enforces its own strict building code (Antwerpse Bouwcode) governing internal courtyard densities, rainwater harvesting, ceiling heights, and party walls.

2. Which regulatory procedure applies to your project?

There are three levels of regulation that apply to residential renovation works:

• Exempt works: Bathroom renovations, rewiring, non-loadbearing partition walls, internal roof insulation, or internal wall plastering.
• Formal Notification (usually with architect): Knocking through load-bearing walls using steel beams, rear extensions up to 40 m² adhering to boundary setback requirements.
• Full Building Permit with Public Enquiry: Raising the roof pitch/ridge height, adding an extra storey, changing facade materials, or extensions exceeding 40 m².

3. Step-by-step workflow for a smooth permit application

To avoid delays on your site, we recommend following this chronological sequence:

• 1. Preliminary consultation: Discuss your concept with Van den Broeck Renovaties and an architect to evaluate feasibility and budget.
• 2. Measured survey and structural calculations by a qualified engineer.
• 3. Digital submission through the Flemish Omgevingsloket portal.
• 4. Review and evaluation by the municipal urban planning department (including a 30-day public notice if required).
• 5. Displaying the official yellow notice poster on-site for 30 days prior to commencing construction.

4. How Van den Broeck Renovaties streamlines your project

We collaborate closely with established Antwerp architects and engineering consultants. While your permit application is processing, we finalize all technical blueprints, procurement schedules, and trade coordination, allowing physical works to commence the moment the permit becomes enforceable.