Conciliation hearing for tenants in France
What is a conciliation hearing?
If you are a tenant in France and facing a dispute with your landlord, conciliation aims to find an amicable agreement before court proceedings. The Departmental Conciliation Commission (CDC) or the judicial conciliator helps bridge positions and record an agreement if possible.[1]
Conciliation seeks an agreement without judgment and can avoid court costs.
Before the hearing
Preparing a clear file increases your chances of success. Gather evidence, letters and supporting documents, and note important dates.
- Photos and witness statements explaining the problem (mold, leaks, etc.).
- Rental agreement and recent inventory reports.[2]
- Rent receipts, invoices and proof of payments.
- Letters and deadlines observed for formal notices.
Keep dated copies of all exchanges with the landlord.
Useful documents
- Copy of the lease and any amendments.
- Inventory reports on move-in and move-out.[2]
- Photos, estimates and repair invoices.
- Contact details of witnesses or the conciliator contacted.
Hearing procedure
The hearing often takes place with the tenant, the landlord and a representative of the CDC or the conciliator judge. Each party briefly presents their version, then proposed solutions are discussed. If an agreement is reached, it can be formalized in writing.
- Presentation of facts and requests by each party.
- Presentation of documents and evidence.
- Proposal of an agreement and assisted negotiation.
- Drafting of minutes if the agreement is accepted.
Respond to summonses to avoid losing your rights.
FAQ
- Is conciliation mandatory?
- No, it is often offered but some procedures require a prior attempt at conciliation depending on the case.
- Do I need representation?
- You may attend alone or be accompanied by a trusted person or a lawyer.
- What if no solution is found?
- If conciliation fails, you can bring the matter to the judicial court to decide the dispute.[3]
How-To
- Gather all relevant documents and make copies.
- Contact the CDC or draft a conciliation request using the available template.
- Respect indicated deadlines and attend the summons.
- If necessary, then bring the case to the judicial court.
Key takeaways
- Conciliation can avoid a trial and preserve tenant-landlord relations.
- A documented file facilitates an amicable resolution.
- Act quickly: respect deadlines and summonses.
Help and resources
- Departmental Conciliation Commission and law
- Templates for lease and inventory reports
- Filing with the judicial court
