Renting in France: What You Need to Know About Deposits, Contracts & Tenant Rights

So you’ve found an apartment in France—great! But before signing anything, do you know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant? French rental laws can be confusing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the system. This guide will break down deposits, contracts, and tenant rights so you know exactly what to expect.

💰 Security Deposits in France

When renting in France, you’ll typically need to pay a security deposit (caution) upfront. Here’s how it works:

✅ Unfurnished Apartments – 1 month’s rent (excluding utilities)
✅ Furnished Apartments – Up to 2 months’ rent
✅ Refund Period – The landlord must return your deposit within 1 month if everything is fine or 2 months if there are damages.

Can landlords deduct from your deposit?
Yes, but only for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or missing items (for furnished rentals). They must provide proof (invoices, receipts, etc.) for any deductions.

📝 Understanding Your French Rental Contract (Bail de Location)

Before signing, read your lease carefully! French rental agreements are legally binding and usually include:

📌 Rental duration – Standard leases:

• Unfurnished: 3 years (renewable)

• Furnished: 1 year (or 9 months for students)

📌 Notice period – If you want to leave, you must give 1 to 3 months' notice, depending on the city. Some areas (like Paris and Toulouse) allow a 1-month notice period under certain conditions.

📌 Who pays for what? – The lease should specify whether utilities (water, electricity, internet) are included.

📌 Maintenance responsibilities – Tenants must handle minor repairs (changing light bulbs, fixing small leaks), but major repairs (like structural damage or replacing a boiler) are the landlord’s responsibility.

👀 The “État des Lieux” (Move-In Inspection)

Before you get the keys, you’ll do a walk-through inspection (État des Lieux) with your landlord. This document records:

🔹 Existing damage (scratches, stains, broken fixtures)
🔹 Furniture & appliances condition (for furnished rentals)
🔹 Meter readings (electricity, water, gas)

Tip: Take photos of everything! If there’s a dispute when you move out, your photos will protect your deposit.

⚖️ Tenant Rights & Protections in France

French rental laws strongly protect tenants, which is great news for you! Here’s what you should know:

✅ Eviction Protection – Landlords cannot evict tenants without a legal process. Plus, from November 1st to March 31st (trêve hivernale), evictions are prohibited during winter.

✅ Rent Increases Are Regulated – In cities with high demand (like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse), there are limits on rent increases.

✅ Right to Quiet Enjoyment – Your landlord cannot enter your home without permission unless there’s an emergency.

✅ Repairs & Maintenance – Landlords must fix serious issues (heating problems, leaks, etc.) within a reasonable time. If they refuse, you can take legal action.

📤 Moving Out: What You Need to Know

When it’s time to leave, here’s what to do:

📌 Send a formal notice (lettre de préavis) – This must be sent by registered mail 1 to 3 months in advance.
📌 Schedule the move-out inspection – Compare it to your move-in inspection to ensure your deposit is returned.
📌 Cancel utilities & insurance – Don’t forget to close your electricity, water, and internet accounts!

🚀 Need Help Navigating Your Rental?

French rental laws can be tricky, but Le Petit Guide makes the process simple! We help expats with:

✅ Lease reviews – Understand what you’re signing
✅ Deposit recovery – Avoid unfair deductions
✅ Rental disputes – Know your rights and options

Want expert help with your move? Contact us today!