Non-compliant installation may result in refusal of compensation
In Belgium, insurance companies require that electrical installations comply with the Règlement Général sur les Installations Électriques (RGIE). If your installation is outdated, dangerous or non-compliant, your insurer may refuse to cover damage in the event of an accident (fire, electrocution, serious breakdown, etc.).
1. Risk of nullity of the insurance contract
If a claim is caused by a non-conforming electrical installation, the insurer may consider that you have not complied with the minimum safety conditions and cancel your contract. This means you’ll have to bear the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home yourself.
2. Refusal of compensation in the event of fire
A short-circuit caused by obsolete wiring or inadequate protection can lead to fire. If the insurer’s investigation reveals that the installation was not up to standard, he may refuse to cover the material and human damage caused by the loss.
3. Coverage limits for electrical damage
Some insurances may limit compensation if the electrical installation has not been checked or brought up to standard. You may not be covered for :
- Electrical appliances damaged by a power surge
- Damage to your equipment caused by an electrical fault
- Emergency response to electrical fires
4. Obligation to provide a certificate of conformity
When taking out home insurance, or after a renovation, some companies require a certificate of electrical compliance issued by an approved organization (Vinçotte, BTV, OCB, SGS…). Without this document, your contract may be limited or cancelled.
5. Risk in the event of sale of the property
If you’re selling your property, an electrical inspection is mandatory. If the installation does not comply, the buyer has 18 months from the date of purchase to carry out the necessary work to bring it up to standard. However, a buyer can negotiate a lower price or refuse to buy a property where the electrical work needs to be redone.
Why use Leader Services?
Our qualified electricians will work with you to bring your installation up to standard and help you obtain your certificate of conformity. We guarantee a fast, insurance-compliant safety upgrade.
Find out more about our services on our electricity page or contact us via our online form.
