Do you know your rights as a Belgian consumer?
📖 Legal protection
Right of reflection
- 14-day right of withdrawal in remote sales
- Exception: not for urgent moves
- Conditions: contract must clearly state this
Right to accurate information
- For the contract: all costs, terms and risks
- During: updates on timing and problems
- After: invoice with clear cost summary
Protection against deception
- Forbidden: false promises about prices or service
- Prohibited: hiding important information
- Right to damages for deception
💳 Money and payments
Advance rules
- Maximum 30% of the total price in advance
- Rest upon delivery or within 30 days
- Credit card: extra protection via chargeback
In case of problems with payment
- Dispute: suspend payment until resolution
- Fraud: contact your bank immediately
- Proof: document all payments
Damages
- Material damage: repair or replacement costs
- Intangible damage: stress, inconvenience, loss of time
- Statutory interest on overdue payments
⚖️ Where to go.
European Consumer Center (ECC).
- Free advice in disputes
- Phone: 02 542 33 46
- E-mail: info@eccbelgium.be
- Website: eccbelgium.be
Consumer Disputes Committee
- Cheap solution without court
- Cost: €25 for consumers
- Website: belmed.be
Justice of the Peace
- For disputes up to €5,000
- Costs: limited (court fees)
- Advantage: fast procedure
Lawyer or legal aid
- Pro bono: free for low-income earners
- Legal expenses insurance: check your policy
- Consultation: initial advice often free of charge
