Heatwaves have exposed a blind spot in Belgium's housing stock
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https://think.ing.com/articles/recent-heatwaves-have-exposed-a-blind-spot-in-the-belgian-housing-stock/
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4 itemsHeatwaves have exposed a blind spot in Belgium’s housing stock
The pressing issue of thermal comfort in Belgian homes amid rising global temperatures highlights a significant but often overlooked aspect of housing stock renovation. Per the full note from ING, an alarming 90% of Belgians reported their homes felt uncomfortably hot during summer 2026, challenging the assumption that energy efficiency equates to summer comfort. As the country grapples with energy efficiency and climate adaptation, stakeholders must also consider indoor climate challenges that have profound effects on residents' health and well-being. This twin dilemma not only impacts housing policy but could also influence economic factors, such as energy consumption and renovation sectors, as the urgency grows. The data from the ING Renovation survey indicates that 82% of residents in newer homes still reported discomfort, emphasizing the urgency for a broader scope in renovation strategies.
Airbnb only part of Belgium’s housing affordability problem
The desk underscores the multifaceted nature of housing affordability issues in Belgium, emphasizing that while short-term rental platforms like Airbnb do contribute to supply constraints, they are not the sole factor. Per the full note from ING, short-term rentals have removed approximately 3,000 homes from the Brussels market alone, exacerbating the challenges posed by rising interest rates and increasing house prices. With the homeownership rate declining from 72.4% in 2022 to 70.9% in 2025, the desk highlights a pressing need for a comprehensive response to a market under duress. Without any imminent high-impact calendar events, these factors may have longer-term implications on economic stability and currency dynamics in the region.
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