Installing a Ventilation System in Belgium: Standards, Regulations and Advice
In Belgium, installing a ventilation system is essential for ensuring indoor air quality and meeting growing energy demands. Standards and regulations vary across the three regions (Wallonia, Flanders, and Brussels-Capital), but they converge toward a common goal: improving the energy efficiency and comfort of buildings. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the latest developments and requirements related to the installation of ventilation systems.
Why Install a Ventilation System?
Controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV) plays a key role in modern buildings. It allows:
- Improve indoor air quality : Remove stale air, pollutants and humidity.
- Reduce energy consumption : Thanks to heat recovery, ventilation systems help reduce heating needs.
- Prevent humidity problems : Limit the risks of mold and deterioration of materials.
With the evolution of energy regulations, particularly the Energy Performance of Buildings (PEB), the installation of ventilation systems is becoming mandatory in many cases.
Standards and regulations by region
1. Wallonia
Wallonia imposes strict standards for new buildings and major renovations:
- PEB 2025 requirements : New constructions must meet advanced energy criteria, with particular attention to VMC to guarantee optimal air quality.
- Major renovations : If more than 75% of the building envelope is renovated, the installation of a compliant ventilation system is mandatory.
- Available grants : Financial assistance is available for the installation of single-flow mechanical ventilation systems. These grants can cover a significant portion of the costs.
Flanders actively encourages the installation of ventilation systems through financial incentives:
- Ventilation bonus : From 2025, an additional bonus will be offered for the installation of ventilation systems as part of renovation projects. The amount can reach 1,000 euros , depending on the energy label obtained.
- Focus on energy efficiency : Ventilation systems are integrated into overall energy reduction strategies.
Brussels adopts an ambitious approach with near-zero energy standards (NZEB):
- PEB regulations : New constructions must meet NZEB standards, with priority given to efficient ventilation.
- Progressive obligations for renovations : Old buildings must gradually improve their energy efficiency, including in terms of ventilation.
- Ban on oil boilers : From 2025, oil boilers will be banned, reinforcing the importance of ventilation systems combined with sustainable heating solutions.
Types of ventilation systems
The main types of ventilation systems available on the Belgian market are:
Single-flow mechanical ventilation :
- Ideal for small homes.
- Average cost: 2,000 to 4,000 euros , installation included.
- Advantages: Easy to install, economical.
Double flow mechanical ventilation :
- Recommended for new or renovated buildings.
- Average cost: 5,000 to 10,000 euros , installation included.
- Benefits: Heat recovery, better energy efficiency.
Hybrid systems :
- Combination of natural and mechanical ventilation.
- Average cost: 3,000 to 6,000 euros , installation included.
- Advantages: Flexibility, adaptability to specific needs.
Regulatory Developments from 2025
From 2025, several measures will strengthen ventilation requirements:
- Ban on oil boilers in Brussels : This measure will encourage the adoption of ventilation systems combined with alternative heating solutions.
- Stricter PEB standards : All regions will impose more ambitious energy criteria for new construction and renovations.
- Increased bonuses : Financial aid for the installation of ventilation systems will be increased, particularly in Flanders and Wallonia.
Approximate Price List
Here is an estimate of the average costs for installing a ventilation system in Belgium (excluding bonuses and aid):
|
System type
|
Average Cost (Installation Included)
|
|---|---|
|
Single-flow mechanical ventilation
|
2,000 to 4,000 euros
|
|
Double flow mechanical ventilation
|
5,000 to 10,000 euros
|
|
Hybrid systems
|
3,000 to 6,000 euros
|
Note : Prices may vary depending on building size, installation complexity, and materials used.
Conclusion
Installing a ventilation system in Belgium is not only a regulatory requirement in many cases, but also a smart investment to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Whether you're in Wallonia, Flanders, or Brussels, it's essential to inform yourself about the standards and available funding to make a choice that's best suited to your needs.
Finally, don't hesitate to consult a certified professional for personalized advice and to ensure an installation that complies with local regulations.