# The Ten-Year Liability Explained

> Contractors and architects are required to provide a ten-year warranty covering the structural stability and waterproofing of the building.

https://exxpertbe.webhosting.be/en/articles/what-is-the-ten-year-liability · English

What Is the Ten-Year Liability?

The 10-year warranty (commonly known in Belgium as ten-year liability) is a legal protection granted to property owners. It requires contractors, architects, and in some cases engineers to remain liable for serious defects affecting a building for a period of ten years.

**What Does This Liability Cover?**

**-** It applies for ten years from the date of the **Provisional Acceptance Inspection**.  
**-** It covers serious defects that:  
° compromise the **structural stability** of the building, or  
° endanger an essential element of the property.

This includes issues such as foundation defects, structural cracks, collapse risks, errors in load-bearing walls, and similar structural problems.

**-** It also covers **waterproofing and weather-tightness defects**.

**What Is Not Covered by Ten-Year Liability?**

Minor hidden defects that do not affect the building's stability are generally not covered. In some cases, traditional hidden-defect liability may still apply if defects are discovered during occupancy. Once a hidden defect is identified, a ten-year period begins during which the seller may remain liable. See our separate article on hidden defects for more information.

**Why Does Ten-Year Liability Exist?**

It protects your investment as a homeowner or property investor by ensuring long-term protection against serious construction defects.

Contractors and architects are required to provide a ten-year warranty covering the structural stability and waterproofing of the building.

## Languages

- [Français](https://exxpertbe.webhosting.be/articles/qu-est-ce-que-la-responsabilite-decennale.md)
- [Nederlands](https://exxpertbe.webhosting.be/nl/artikels/wat-is-de-tienjarige-aansprakelijkheid.md)