Antwerp steps up fight against rental discrimination

Antwerp has launched a new action plan to tackle discrimination in the rental housing market. The city will continue carrying out practical tests at estate agencies to check whether all rental applicants are treated fairly.

Most agencies passed earlier tests, but those found discriminating will first receive advice and training. If they continue to discriminate after repeated tests, they could be referred to the Professional Institute of Estate Agents (BIV), which can take disciplinary action.

The plan also aims to educate private landlords, who rent out about one-third of homes without using an estate agent. Property students will receive training on how to recognise and prevent discrimination, while tenants will be given more information about their rights and how to report unfair treatment.

Alderman for Equal Opportunities Lien Van de Kelder said everyone should have a fair chance to rent a home. She stressed that the goal is to stop discrimination through education and testing, but warned that those who continue to discriminate will face appropriate consequences.

^{​#FlandersNewsService | A for rent sign in Leuven © BELGA PHOTO SISKA GREMMELPREZ}