Energy Audit: Tenants' Rights in France
As a tenant in France, understanding when an energy audit is required can affect your comfort, expenses and rights. The energy performance diagnosis (DPE)[1] and obligations related to energy-inefficient housing — often called "thermal sieves" — are governed by national rules. This article clearly explains when an audit or a more detailed audit is mandatory, what steps to take with the landlord, and how to enforce your rights if the dwelling does not meet decency standards. You will also find practical steps to request work, deadlines to respect, and official references to check the applicable texts in France.
What does the law say?
French law sets obligations for rental housing, notably concerning decency and information on energy performance. Law No. 89-462 of 6 July 1989 and its developments specify the rights and duties of tenants and landlords[2]. In practice, the DPE informs about the dwelling's energy consumption and climate impact, but the obligation for a detailed audit depends on context (sale, renovation, or local policy).
When is an energy audit mandatory?
A more comprehensive energy audit (beyond the DPE) can be mandatory in several cases:
- When there is a renovation project eligible for grants or required by a local authority.
- When diagnostics are imposed before a sale or a local compliance operation.
- When the dwelling is identified as a "thermal sieve" and aid requires an audit for work eligibility.
What to do as a tenant?
If you believe your dwelling needs an audit or work:
- Contact your landlord in writing to report the problem and request information about the DPE and planned works.
- Gather evidence: energy bills, photos, and letters to document nuisances or high consumption.
- Respect legal deadlines for notifications and keep copies of all correspondence.
If the landlord refuses to act, you can apply to the departmental conciliation commission (CDC) and then, as a last resort, the tribunal judiciaire to have a breach of decency obligations recognized or to obtain works.
Work and cost allocation
As a rule, the landlord is responsible for works necessary to ensure the dwelling's decency. Minor maintenance tasks remain the tenant's responsibility according to the lease. For significant energy renovations, public aids may exist but often require a prior energy audit.
- Subsidies or certificates may cover part or all of the renovation costs for eligible landlords.
- Ask the landlord for quotes and documents related to audits and aids before work begins.
Key takeaways
- The DPE informs tenants, but a detailed audit depends on context and aid conditions.
- Respect deadlines and send written requests to keep evidence.
- The CDC can assist before any court action.
FAQ
- Can a tenant demand an energy audit?
- The tenant can request information from the landlord and propose an audit, but the obligation to carry out the audit depends on the legal context and the aids mobilized.
- Who pays for the audit or the works?
- Decency-related works are the landlord's responsibility; audits tied to aids may be funded by public schemes or shared depending on agreement.
- What if the landlord refuses to improve the dwelling?
- Begin with conciliation through the CDC, then take the case to the tribunal judiciaire if necessary.
How to
- Contact the landlord in writing to request the DPE and propose an audit if needed.
- Collect evidence and documents: bills, photos, consumption records.
- If unsatisfied, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission.
- As a last resort, bring the case before the tribunal judiciaire with your evidence.
