CDC Summons Deadlines for Tenants in France
If you are a tenant in France and you receive a summons from the Commission départementale de conciliation (CDC), it is normal to have questions about deadlines, the documents to prepare and the steps to follow. The CDC offers free mediation before a court referral and there are specific timelines for the summons and the parties' responses. This article clearly explains common timeframes, how to prepare (evidence, letters), what options tenants have in case of disagreement, and when to consider the tribunal judiciaire. The tone is practical and suitable for tenants who want to defend their rights without complicated legal jargon.
Summons and Response Deadlines
Deadlines vary depending on the situation and the department. In practice, the summons often occurs within a few weeks to two months. Law n°89-462 that governs leases sets general rules on rental procedures[1], and the CDC is the contact point to attempt an amicable conciliation[2]. If conciliation fails, recourse to the tribunal judiciaire remains possible[3].
- Typical timeframe: summons within a few weeks to two months.
- Prepare your evidence (lease, receipts, dated photos) before the hearing.
- If a form or letter is required, follow the indicated method of submission.
- If conciliation fails, you can bring the matter before the tribunal judiciaire.
Organization and documentation are often decisive in a conciliation.
How to Prepare
Before the summons, gather essential items: the lease agreement, rent receipts, exchanged letters, photos of defects and quotes if needed.
- Collect evidence: lease, dated photos, letters and quotes.
- Prepare payment proofs (receipts, bank statements) and note disputed amounts.
- Notify a trusted person or get assistance (association, lawyer) if necessary.
- Respect response and submission deadlines indicated in the summons.
Gather your receipts and photos in a clear file.
FAQ
- What is the Commission départementale de conciliation (CDC)?
- The CDC is a free body that helps tenants and landlords reach an amicable agreement before any legal action.[2]
- How long before the summons?
- There is no single deadline: generally expect a few weeks to two months depending on the volume of requests and the department.
- Is the CDC decision binding?
- No, the CDC does not issue an enforceable decision unless the parties agree; if no agreement is reached, you can bring the matter to the tribunal judiciaire.[3]
How-To
- Request conciliation using the appropriate form (Service-public).
- Gather documents and evidence (lease, receipts, photos).
- Send documents and confirm your attendance on the summons date.
- If no agreement is reached: bring the case to the tribunal judiciaire respecting deadlines.
Key takeaways
- Respond promptly when you receive a summons.
- Keep clear records of all evidence and exchanges.
- CDC conciliation is free and can avoid court proceedings.
Help and Support
- Forms and steps (Service-public.fr)
- Law text: Loi n°89-462 (Legifrance)
- Information on the tribunal judiciaire (Justice.fr)
