Charge Regularization Error for Tenants in France
How to contest a charge regularization
If your landlord presents a charge regularization that seems incorrect, start by checking the supporting documents: statements, invoices and receipts. Request missing documents in writing and note the disputed amounts for each item. Keep all evidence (letters, emails, photos) and date them to establish a timeline. If the landlord's response is unsatisfactory, you can contact the departmental conciliation commission or, as a last resort, the judicial court.[1]
Documents to gather
- Gather documents (document): receipts, leases, energy bills and charge statements.
- Request detailed supporting documents from the landlord in writing (email or registered letter).
- Check the deadlines (time): the regularization must be based on clearly indicated periods and respect limitation periods.
What to do next?
Send a written contestation by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt if necessary, specifying the disputed amounts and attaching the evidence. Propose a meeting or conciliation to seek an amicable agreement. If conciliation fails, prepare a file for the judicial court with the history and all supporting documents.[2]
How to document your file
Make a chronological summary of exchanges and organize invoices by item (heating, water, maintenance). If possible, request a detailed explanation of how provisions and allocations between tenants were calculated.
Key points
- Keep all documents related to charges and payments.
- Act quickly and respect deadlines (time) to contest.
- Favor conciliation before starting court proceedings.
FAQ
- Can I refuse to pay the regularization?
- You can dispute the amount requested if it is not justified; pending the outcome, avoid stopping all payments without legal advice as this may have consequences.
- What are the deadlines to act?
- Limitation periods vary by case; it is important to act upon receipt of supporting documents and to keep evidence of exchanges.
- Who should I contact if in doubt?
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission or consult Service-public and Legifrance for official procedures.
How to
- Gather documents (document): receipts, invoices and statements.
- Send a contestation letter by registered mail (mail) detailing the amounts and attaching evidence.
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission (contact) to seek an amicable solution.
- Bring the case to the judicial court (court) if conciliation fails.
