Your Rights as a Tenant in France in 2025

Navigating the French rental market requires a clear understanding of your rights as a tenant. French tenancy laws are designed to protect both landlords and tenants, offering a balanced framework for lease agreements. In this guide, we’ll explore the rights you have as a tenant in France in 2025.

Introduction

As a tenant in France, knowing your legal rights ensures a smoother rental experience and helps avoid disputes with landlords. Whether you're renting a furnished or unfurnished property, the French Code Civil and the Alur Law lay out the rules protecting your interests.

Key Tenant Rights in France in 2025

1. Right to a Written Lease Agreement

• Requirement: All rental agreements must be in writing.
• Details: The lease must specify rent amount, duration, and responsibilities of both parties.

2. Security Deposit Regulations

• For unfurnished rentals, the deposit is limited to one month's rent.
• For furnished rentals, it can be up to two months’ rent.
• Landlords must return the deposit within two months of lease termination, minus deductions for damages (if applicable).

3. Right to Habitability

Landlords are obligated to provide a safe, clean, and habitable living environment. This includes:

• Functioning utilities (water, electricity, heating).
• Repairs for major damages or maintenance issues.

4. Protection Against Arbitrary Rent Increases

• Rent increases are only permitted under specific conditions, such as lease renewal or after major renovations.
• In rent-controlled areas, increases are capped by local regulations.

5. Right to Privacy

• Landlords must provide 24 hours’ notice before entering the property.
• Unannounced visits or unauthorized access violate your rights.

6. Protection from Eviction

• Evictions require a court order, and specific protections are in place during winter months (November to March), known as the trêve hivernale.

Repairs and Maintenance

Tenant’s Responsibility

• Minor repairs (e.g., changing light bulbs, cleaning gutters).
• Routine maintenance of appliances and fixtures.

Landlord’s Responsibility

• Major repairs (e.g., roof leaks, broken heating systems).
• Addressing structural issues affecting habitability.

What to Do in Case of Disputes

1. Communicate First

Always try resolving issues directly with your landlord.

2. Seek Mediation

Contact the local Commission Départementale de Conciliation (CDC) for free mediation services.

3. Legal Action

For unresolved disputes, you can file a complaint in Tribunal d’Instance, the local court handling tenancy cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord increase rent during my lease?

No, unless it’s stated in your lease agreement or due to major renovations.

What if my landlord refuses to return my security deposit?

You can send a formal demand letter. If unresolved, escalate the matter to court.

Can I terminate my lease early?

Yes, but notice periods apply:

• One month for furnished rentals.
• Three months for unfurnished rentals (shortened to one month in specific cases, like job relocation).

Conclusion

Understanding your rights as a tenant in France empowers you to navigate the rental market confidently. From lease agreements to eviction protections, French law offers robust safeguards for tenants. For additional peace of mind, consider Cautioneo’s Tenant Guarantor Service, simplifying your rental journey while reassuring landlords of your reliability.