Access to Housing for Repairs — Tenant Rights France
As a tenant in France, it is common to wonder under what conditions the landlord can enter the dwelling to carry out repairs. You have rights regarding respect for your privacy, notice periods and the reasonableness of interventions. This article clearly explains what the law provides, how to react if access is requested, which steps to take if you want to refuse or negotiate the schedule, and when to contact official services. The information is based on the French regulations applicable to residential leases and outlines practical steps to document and defend your situation.
What the law says
The Law No. 89-462 of 6 July 1989 governs the lease contract and the respective obligations of landlord and tenant, notably regarding maintenance and repairs. The landlord must respect the peaceful enjoyment of the dwelling and does not have a general right of entry without your agreement, except in case of emergency or an explicit contractual clause.[1]
When can the landlord enter?
- In an emergency (risk to safety or imminent damage) to carry out immediate repairs.
- For agreed works between the parties or works provided for in the lease, with an agreed schedule.
- To allow access to craftsmen if you have given prior consent.
- Following a judicial decision ordering access, where applicable.
If the landlord wishes to enter for non-urgent works, they must notify you and propose reasonable dates. A motivated and proportionate refusal may be possible if the dates conflict with your privacy or professional constraints.
Organize access and protect your rights
Always ask for written confirmation of dates and details of the works. If the landlord insists on access, propose alternative slots and, if appropriate, request a witness or take dated photos before the intervention. In case of persistent disagreement, the departmental conciliation commission can help reach an amicable solution.[2]
Refusing access: consequences and remedies
An abusive refusal (blocking works necessary for safety or essential maintenance) may engage your responsibility. However, you can legitimately refuse unjustified or poorly scheduled access and request the works be rescheduled. If the dispute continues, consider a formal notice followed, if necessary, by referral to the judicial court.
What evidence to keep?
- Copies of letters and emails exchanged with the landlord.
- Dated photos and videos before and after the works.
- Quotes, invoices and craftsmen reports in case of damage.
Key takeaways
- The landlord has no general right of entry without consent except in emergencies.
- Systematically document exchanges and keep evidence and photos.
- Favor conciliation before considering judicial action.
FAQ
- Can the landlord enter without warning?
- No, except in a justified emergency (immediate risk) or if the lease explicitly provides; otherwise, they must obtain your agreement.[1]
- Can I refuse access for repairs?
- Yes, if the request is unreasonable or infringes your privacy; propose alternatives and, if needed, contact the departmental conciliation commission.[2]
- What evidence should I keep if damage occurs?
- Keep letters, quotes, invoices, photos and any inventory of fixtures to establish liability and request compensation.[3]
How to
- Reply in writing to the landlord's request specifying your availabilities.
- Request a written breakdown of the works, duration and contact details of the contractors.
- If necessary, propose alternative dates and keep all evidence.
- If refusal persists, request the departmental conciliation commission, then the judicial court if agreement is impossible.
Help and Support
- Service-public.fr — practical information and official forms
- Legifrance.gouv.fr — official texts and Law No. 89-462
- Service-public.fr — procedures and mediation, Departmental Conciliation Commission
