{"id":592,"date":"2026-10-25T13:43:59","date_gmt":"2026-10-25T12:43:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/how-we-work\/"},"modified":"2026-11-03T23:33:19","modified_gmt":"2026-11-03T22:33:19","slug":"how-we-work","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/how-we-work\/","title":{"rendered":"How we work"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><section class=\"bb-hero bb-hero--beeld bb-hero--sub\" id=\"hero\" data-bg=\"primary\"><img class=\"bb-hero__img\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze.webp\" srcset=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze-960.webp 960w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze-1440.webp 1440w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze.webp 1920w\" sizes=\"100vw\" alt=\"Tidy desk seen from above with notebook and folder\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1072\"><div class=\"bb-container bb-hero__inhoud\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">HOW WE WORK<\/p><h1 class=\"bb-hero__kop\">From request to investigation report<\/h1><p class=\"bb-hero__tagline\">Clear agreements at every stage.<\/p><p class=\"bb-hero__tekst\">An investigation into real estate abroad calls for a careful and transparent approach. We guide every stage, from the first request to the report.\nYou know the assignment, the expected lead time and the costs in advance.<\/p><div class=\"bb-hero__knoppen\"><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--invers\" href=\"\/en\/request-a-pre-check\/\">Request a pre-check<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/section><nav class=\"bb-breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><ol><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/\">Home<\/a><\/li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">How we work<\/span><\/li><\/ol><\/div><\/nav><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-tijdlijn bb-tijdlijn--v\" id=\"werkwijze\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">STEPS<\/p><h2>Our approach in five steps<\/h2><ol class=\"bb-tijdlijn__lijst\"><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">1<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Request and intake<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">usually 2 working days<\/span><\/div><p>You submit a request via the form, by e-mail or by phone. We usually contact you within two working days. We discuss the case in broad terms, the presumed country of investigation and what you intend to do with the outcome.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">2<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Assessment and quotation<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">a few days<\/span><\/div><p>We assess whether an investigation in the country concerned is possible and which services can be carried out there. You receive a written quotation with a description of the assignment and an indication of the lead time. After your approval, you are given access to the secure channel for the case data.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">3<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Pre-check<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">usually 1\u20132 weeks<\/span><\/div><p>Our local partners check whether there are assets in the name of the person investigated in the country concerned and what type of assets they are, without further in-depth investigation. The pre-check usually takes 1 to 2 weeks after receipt of all the necessary data. You receive the result in writing. With it, we explain what was investigated, which limitations apply and which further investigation may be useful.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">4<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Full in-depth investigation and report<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">usually 2\u20134 weeks<\/span><\/div><p>For the full investigation you receive a separate quotation. We only start after your approval of the quotation. Locally authorised lawyers and appraisers establish, in accordance with the law of the country of investigation, which properties are involved, where they are located, in whose name they are registered and since when. Where relevant and possible, they also investigate the ownership share, the date of acquisition, the manner of acquisition and the value. This gives you a full and detailed picture. You receive a clear report in English with the findings, the substantiation and an explanation of the limitations. The investigation usually takes 2 to 4 weeks after your confirmation of the assignment and receipt of the necessary data and documents.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">5<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Explanation and aftercare<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">ongoing<\/span><\/div><p>We continue to support you after delivery. We answer questions about the findings, provide explanations to the lawyers involved or the court where necessary and, on request, arrange a sworn translation of the source documents. If your case requires additional work, you receive a separate quotation for it in advance.<\/p><\/div><\/li><\/ol><p class=\"bb-tijdlijn__knop\"><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/request-a-pre-check\/\">Request a pre-check <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-tekst-beeld bb-tekst-beeld--rechts\" id=\"tekst-beeld\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><div class=\"bb-grid-2 bb-tekst-beeld__grid\"><div class=\"bb-tekst-beeld__tekst bb-tekst\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">DATA PROTECTION<\/p><h2>Confidential and secure data processing<\/h2><\/div><figure class=\"bb-tekst-beeld__beeld\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze-veilig.webp\" alt=\"Closed document folder with a key on a desk\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\"><figcaption>Case data is exchanged exclusively via secure channels.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-icoonlijst\" id=\"icoonlijst\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">COLLABORATION<\/p><h2>Collaboration and costs<\/h2><ul class=\"bb-icoonlijst__lijst bb-grid-2\"><li class=\"bb-icoonlijst__item\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">checklist<\/span><div><h3>A clear start<\/h3><p>In a confidential discussion, we go through your question and the services you require. In advance, you receive a written quotation with a description of the assignment, an indication of the lead time and the costs. We only start after your approval.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-icoonlijst__item\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">balance<\/span><div><h3>You stay in control<\/h3><p>You know the costs in advance. A positive result does not automatically lead to a follow-up assignment. For a full investigation, a valuation or other additional work, you first receive a separate quotation.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-icoonlijst__item\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">call<\/span><div><h3>A dedicated point of contact for your case<\/h3><p>You have a dedicated point of contact for questions about your assignment. We keep you informed of the progress and of any delays. After delivery, we remain available to explain the findings.<\/p><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-sectie--tekst\" id=\"costs-and-possible-savings\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>Costs and possible savings<\/h2><div class=\"bb-tekst\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>The financial significance depends on the individual case.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Where the findings give cause for recovery or for preventing unjustified payments in the future, the financial significance can be considerable.<\/p>\n<p>The added value can extend beyond the moment the investigation is completed. A correct assessment for the longer term and the careful use of public funds also play a part.<\/p>\n<p>Whether recovery or adjustment of support is possible depends on the individual case and on the assessment by the competent authority or the court. We make no promises of results in this regard.<\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--tekst\" id=\"a-targeted-use-of-your-budget\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>A targeted use of your budget<\/h2><div class=\"bb-tekst\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>First an initial picture, then a well-founded choice about the next steps.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/services\/pre-check\/\">the pre-check as a first step<\/a>, you establish whether there are indications of real estate registered in the name of the person concerned. On that basis, you decide whether further investigation, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/services\/full-investigation\/\">the full in-depth investigation<\/a>, is useful. If another form of investigation is more suitable, we discuss the purpose and the costs of the assignment in advance. This allows you to weigh the expected added value against the expenditure.<\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-sectie--tekst\" id=\"lawfulness\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>Lawfulness<\/h2><div class=\"bb-tekst\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Investigation in accordance with the law of the country of investigation, into real estate only.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We carry out every investigation in accordance with the laws and regulations of the country of investigation, through lawyers and appraisers who are authorised there. The investigation is carried out in compliance with the GDPR rules, the applicable privacy rules and local legislation. We investigate only real estate registered in the name of the person concerned. We do not investigate on the basis of origin, and never the private life, behaviour or contacts of the person concerned.<\/p>\n<p>Investigations and reports by Bureaubuitenland have been used in court proceedings in Belgium and the Netherlands concerning foreign property. In specific cases, judges have taken the investigation findings into account, including the justice of the peace (vrederechter) in Hamme (6 June 2019), the court of first instance in Antwerp (5 October 2020) and the justice of the peace court in Antwerp in the Woonhaven case. In those cases, defences based on privacy and anti-discrimination legislation were not upheld. Each ruling relates to a specific case and offers no guarantee for the outcome of another case. The judge assesses the evidential value of the documents submitted.<\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-kaarten bb-kaarten--kb\" id=\"gerelateerd\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>Read also<\/h2><div class=\"bb-grid-3\"><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-kaart--kb\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"bb-kaart__beeld\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/kb-vermoeden-dossier-768x429.webp\" alt=\"When may you start a property investigation? Suspicion, GDPR and case building\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"><h3 class=\"bb-kaart__titel\">When may you start a property investigation? Suspicion, GDPR and case building<\/h3><p class=\"bb-kaart__tekst\">When may you start a property investigation? Which suspicion is sufficient, what the GDPR requires, what is not allowed and how to build the case file.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/knowledge-base\/when-to-start-a-property-investigation\/\">Read more <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-kaart--kb\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"bb-kaart__beeld\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/over-ons-768x429.webp\" alt=\"About us\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"><h3 class=\"bb-kaart__titel\">About us<\/h3><p class=\"bb-kaart__tekst\">Bureaubuitenland Belgi\u00eb BV, Antwerp: investigations into real estate abroad for OCMWs and housing companies, in 45 countries.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/about-us\/\">Read more <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-kaart--kb\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"bb-kaart__beeld\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/jurisprudentie-768x429.webp\" alt=\"Case law\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"><h3 class=\"bb-kaart__titel\">Case law<\/h3><p class=\"bb-kaart__tekst\">Case law on foreign real estate owned by social tenants: Hamme 2019, Antwerp 2020, Woonhaven, Constitutional Court 2024 and Cassation 2026.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/case-law\/\">Read more <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-vonnissen\" id=\"jurisprudentie\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">CASE LAW<\/p><h2>What the court says<\/h2><div class=\"bb-grid-3\"><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-vonnis\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">gavel<\/span><p class=\"bb-kicker\">Justice of the peace Hamme<\/p><h3>6 June 2019<\/h3><p class=\"bb-vonnis__uitkomst\">Defences based on privacy and anti-discrimination rejected; the tenant was ordered to repay and to reimburse the investigation costs.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/case-law\/\">Read the judgment <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-vonnis\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">gavel<\/span><p class=\"bb-kicker\">Court of first instance Antwerp<\/p><h3>5 October 2020<\/h3><p class=\"bb-vonnis__uitkomst\">On appeal, it was held that concealing foreign real estate is a serious breach of the rules on social renting.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/case-law\/\">Read the judgment <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-vonnis\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">gavel<\/span><p class=\"bb-kicker\">Justice of the peace court Antwerp<\/p><h3>Woonhaven case<\/h3><p class=\"bb-vonnis__uitkomst\">The justice of the peace held that, given its remit, a housing company must investigate property abroad.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/case-law\/\">Read the judgment <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-cta bb-cta--beeld\" id=\"cta\" data-bg=\"primary\" style=\"--bb-cta-img:url(https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/cta-band.webp)\"><div class=\"bb-container bb-cta__inhoud\"><h2 class=\"bb-cta__kop\">Take the first step<\/h2><p class=\"bb-cta__tekst\"><strong>We only start after your approval of the quotation.<\/strong>\nDo you have indications that a person concerned owns real estate abroad? We discuss your case with you and advise which investigation is appropriate.\nYou receive in advance a description of the assignment, an indication of the lead time and a written quotation.<\/p><p class=\"bb-cta__knop\"><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--invers\" href=\"\/en\/request-a-pre-check\/\">Request a pre-check<\/a><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/contact\/\">Discuss your case <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/p><p class=\"bb-cta__contact\"><a href=\"tel:+31851110123\">+31 (0)85 111 01 23<\/a><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> \u00b7 <\/span><a href=\"mailto:info@bureaubuitenland.be\">info@bureaubuitenland.be<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/section><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":148,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-592","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail"],"bb_rendered":"<section class=\"bb-hero bb-hero--beeld bb-hero--sub\" id=\"hero\" data-bg=\"primary\"><img class=\"bb-hero__img\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze.webp\" srcset=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze-960.webp 960w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze-1440.webp 1440w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze.webp 1920w\" sizes=\"100vw\" alt=\"Tidy desk seen from above with notebook and folder\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1072\"><div class=\"bb-container bb-hero__inhoud\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">HOW WE WORK<\/p><h1 class=\"bb-hero__kop\">From request to investigation report<\/h1><p class=\"bb-hero__tagline\">Clear agreements at every stage.<\/p><p class=\"bb-hero__tekst\">An investigation into real estate abroad calls for a careful and transparent approach. We guide every stage, from the first request to the report.<br><br>You know the assignment, the expected lead time and the costs in advance.<\/p><div class=\"bb-hero__knoppen\"><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--invers\" href=\"\/en\/request-a-pre-check\/\">Request a pre-check<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/section><nav class=\"bb-breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><ol><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/\">Home<\/a><\/li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">How we work<\/span><\/li><\/ol><\/div><\/nav><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-tijdlijn bb-tijdlijn--v\" id=\"werkwijze\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">STEPS<\/p><h2>Our approach in five steps<\/h2><ol class=\"bb-tijdlijn__lijst\"><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">1<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Request and intake<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">usually 2 working days<\/span><\/div><p>You submit a request via the form, by e-mail or by phone. We usually contact you within two working days. We discuss the case in broad terms, the presumed country of investigation and what you intend to do with the outcome.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">2<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Assessment and quotation<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">a few days<\/span><\/div><p>We assess whether an investigation in the country concerned is possible and which services can be carried out there. You receive a written quotation with a description of the assignment and an indication of the lead time. After your approval, you are given access to the secure channel for the case data.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">3<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Pre-check<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">usually 1\u20132 weeks<\/span><\/div><p>Our local partners check whether there are assets in the name of the person investigated in the country concerned and what type of assets they are, without further in-depth investigation. The pre-check usually takes 1 to 2 weeks after receipt of all the necessary data. You receive the result in writing. With it, we explain what was investigated, which limitations apply and which further investigation may be useful.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">4<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Full in-depth investigation and report<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">usually 2\u20134 weeks<\/span><\/div><p>For the full investigation you receive a separate quotation. We only start after your approval of the quotation. Locally authorised lawyers and appraisers establish, in accordance with the law of the country of investigation, which properties are involved, where they are located, in whose name they are registered and since when. Where relevant and possible, they also investigate the ownership share, the date of acquisition, the manner of acquisition and the value. This gives you a full and detailed picture. You receive a clear report in English with the findings, the substantiation and an explanation of the limitations. The investigation usually takes 2 to 4 weeks after your confirmation of the assignment and receipt of the necessary data and documents.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-stap\"><span class=\"bb-stap__nr\" aria-hidden=\"true\">5<\/span><div class=\"bb-stap__inhoud\"><div class=\"bb-stap__kop\"><h3>Explanation and aftercare<\/h3><span class=\"bb-tag\">ongoing<\/span><\/div><p>We continue to support you after delivery. We answer questions about the findings, provide explanations to the lawyers involved or the court where necessary and, on request, arrange a sworn translation of the source documents. If your case requires additional work, you receive a separate quotation for it in advance.<\/p><\/div><\/li><\/ol><p class=\"bb-tijdlijn__knop\"><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/request-a-pre-check\/\">Request a pre-check <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-tekst-beeld bb-tekst-beeld--rechts\" id=\"tekst-beeld\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><div class=\"bb-grid-2 bb-tekst-beeld__grid\"><div class=\"bb-tekst-beeld__tekst bb-tekst\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">DATA PROTECTION<\/p><h2>Confidential and secure data processing<\/h2><\/div><figure class=\"bb-tekst-beeld__beeld\"><img src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/werkwijze-veilig.webp\" alt=\"Closed document folder with a key on a desk\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\"><figcaption>Case data is exchanged exclusively via secure channels.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-icoonlijst\" id=\"icoonlijst\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">COLLABORATION<\/p><h2>Collaboration and costs<\/h2><ul class=\"bb-icoonlijst__lijst bb-grid-2\"><li class=\"bb-icoonlijst__item\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">checklist<\/span><div><h3>A clear start<\/h3><p>In a confidential discussion, we go through your question and the services you require. In advance, you receive a written quotation with a description of the assignment, an indication of the lead time and the costs. We only start after your approval.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-icoonlijst__item\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">balance<\/span><div><h3>You stay in control<\/h3><p>You know the costs in advance. A positive result does not automatically lead to a follow-up assignment. For a full investigation, a valuation or other additional work, you first receive a separate quotation.<\/p><\/div><\/li><li class=\"bb-icoonlijst__item\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">call<\/span><div><h3>A dedicated point of contact for your case<\/h3><p>You have a dedicated point of contact for questions about your assignment. We keep you informed of the progress and of any delays. After delivery, we remain available to explain the findings.<\/p><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-sectie--tekst\" id=\"costs-and-possible-savings\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>Costs and possible savings<\/h2><div class=\"bb-tekst\"><p><strong>The financial significance depends on the individual case.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Where the findings give cause for recovery or for preventing unjustified payments in the future, the financial significance can be considerable.<\/p>\n<p>The added value can extend beyond the moment the investigation is completed. A correct assessment for the longer term and the careful use of public funds also play a part.<\/p>\n<p>Whether recovery or adjustment of support is possible depends on the individual case and on the assessment by the competent authority or the court. We make no promises of results in this regard.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--tekst\" id=\"a-targeted-use-of-your-budget\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>A targeted use of your budget<\/h2><div class=\"bb-tekst\"><p><strong>First an initial picture, then a well-founded choice about the next steps.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/services\/pre-check\/\">the pre-check as a first step<\/a>, you establish whether there are indications of real estate registered in the name of the person concerned. On that basis, you decide whether further investigation, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/services\/full-investigation\/\">the full in-depth investigation<\/a>, is useful. If another form of investigation is more suitable, we discuss the purpose and the costs of the assignment in advance. This allows you to weigh the expected added value against the expenditure.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-sectie--tekst\" id=\"lawfulness\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>Lawfulness<\/h2><div class=\"bb-tekst\"><p><strong>Investigation in accordance with the law of the country of investigation, into real estate only.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We carry out every investigation in accordance with the laws and regulations of the country of investigation, through lawyers and appraisers who are authorised there. The investigation is carried out in compliance with the GDPR rules, the applicable privacy rules and local legislation. We investigate only real estate registered in the name of the person concerned. We do not investigate on the basis of origin, and never the private life, behaviour or contacts of the person concerned.<\/p>\n<p>Investigations and reports by Bureaubuitenland have been used in court proceedings in Belgium and the Netherlands concerning foreign property. In specific cases, judges have taken the investigation findings into account, including the justice of the peace (vrederechter) in Hamme (6 June 2019), the court of first instance in Antwerp (5 October 2020) and the justice of the peace court in Antwerp in the Woonhaven case. In those cases, defences based on privacy and anti-discrimination legislation were not upheld. Each ruling relates to a specific case and offers no guarantee for the outcome of another case. The judge assesses the evidential value of the documents submitted.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-kaarten bb-kaarten--kb\" id=\"gerelateerd\" data-bg=\"paper\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><h2>Read also<\/h2><div class=\"bb-grid-3\"><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-kaart--kb\"><img class=\"bb-kaart__beeld\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/kb-vermoeden-dossier-768x429.webp\" alt=\"When may you start a property investigation? Suspicion, GDPR and case building\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"><h3 class=\"bb-kaart__titel\">When may you start a property investigation? Suspicion, GDPR and case building<\/h3><p class=\"bb-kaart__tekst\">When may you start a property investigation? Which suspicion is sufficient, what the GDPR requires, what is not allowed and how to build the case file.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/knowledge-base\/when-to-start-a-property-investigation\/\">Read more <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-kaart--kb\"><img class=\"bb-kaart__beeld\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/over-ons-768x429.webp\" alt=\"About us\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"><h3 class=\"bb-kaart__titel\">About us<\/h3><p class=\"bb-kaart__tekst\">Bureaubuitenland Belgi\u00eb BV, Antwerp: investigations into real estate abroad for OCMWs and housing companies, in 45 countries.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/about-us\/\">Read more <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-kaart--kb\"><img class=\"bb-kaart__beeld\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/jurisprudentie-768x429.webp\" alt=\"Case law\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"><h3 class=\"bb-kaart__titel\">Case law<\/h3><p class=\"bb-kaart__tekst\">Case law on foreign real estate owned by social tenants: Hamme 2019, Antwerp 2020, Woonhaven, Constitutional Court 2024 and Cassation 2026.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/case-law\/\">Read more <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-sectie--panel bb-vonnissen\" id=\"jurisprudentie\" data-bg=\"panel\"><div class=\"bb-container\"><p class=\"bb-kicker\">CASE LAW<\/p><h2>What the court says<\/h2><div class=\"bb-grid-3\"><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-vonnis\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">gavel<\/span><p class=\"bb-kicker\">Justice of the peace Hamme<\/p><h3>6 June 2019<\/h3><p class=\"bb-vonnis__uitkomst\">Defences based on privacy and anti-discrimination rejected; the tenant was ordered to repay and to reimburse the investigation costs.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/case-law\/\">Read the judgment <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-vonnis\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">gavel<\/span><p class=\"bb-kicker\">Court of first instance Antwerp<\/p><h3>5 October 2020<\/h3><p class=\"bb-vonnis__uitkomst\">On appeal, it was held that concealing foreign real estate is a serious breach of the rules on social renting.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/case-law\/\">Read the judgment <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><article class=\"bb-kaart bb-vonnis\"><span class=\"bb-icoon material-symbols-outlined\" aria-hidden=\"true\">gavel<\/span><p class=\"bb-kicker\">Justice of the peace court Antwerp<\/p><h3>Woonhaven case<\/h3><p class=\"bb-vonnis__uitkomst\">The justice of the peace held that, given its remit, a housing company must investigate property abroad.<\/p><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/case-law\/\">Read the judgment <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"bb-sectie bb-cta bb-cta--beeld\" id=\"cta\" data-bg=\"primary\" style=\"--bb-cta-img:url(https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb\/cta-band.webp)\"><div class=\"bb-container bb-cta__inhoud\"><h2 class=\"bb-cta__kop\">Take the first step<\/h2><p class=\"bb-cta__tekst\"><strong>We only start after your approval of the quotation.<\/strong><br><br>Do you have indications that a person concerned owns real estate abroad? We discuss your case with you and advise which investigation is appropriate.<br><br>You receive in advance a description of the assignment, an indication of the lead time and a written quotation.<\/p><p class=\"bb-cta__knop\"><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--invers\" href=\"\/en\/request-a-pre-check\/\">Request a pre-check<\/a><a class=\"bb-knop bb-knop--tertiair\" href=\"\/en\/contact\/\">Discuss your case <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2192<\/span><\/a><\/p><p class=\"bb-cta__contact\"><a href=\"tel:+31851110123\">+31 (0)85 111 01 23<\/a><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> \u00b7 <\/span><a href=\"mailto:info@bureaubuitenland.be\">info@bureaubuitenland.be<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/section>\n","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/592","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=592"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/592\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2882,"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/592\/revisions\/2882"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/148"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bureaubuitenland.be\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=592"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}