{PROVIDED_SECOND_LANGUAGE_TITLE}
Choosing between a furnished lease and an unfurnished lease has concrete consequences for the tenant in France. As a tenant, it is important to know the contract duration, the amount of the security deposit, the notice rules, and who is responsible for routine maintenance and major repairs. This article simply explains the practical and legal differences, how to document the inventory of fixtures, what steps to take in case of a dispute, and when to contact the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court to defend your rights. References to the law and administrative procedures are provided so you can act with clarity and confidence.
Types de bail et obligations principales
In France, the two main forms are the furnished lease and the unfurnished lease. A furnished lease includes a dwelling equipped with essential furniture and appliances; it often has a minimum duration of one year (or nine months for a student). The unfurnished lease is generally concluded for three years (individual landlord) or six years (company) and assumes the dwelling is not furnished. The nature of the lease affects the security deposit, notice periods and taxation.
Dépôt de garantie, loyers et révisions
The amount of the security deposit differs by lease type: for an unfurnished lease it is generally one month's rent, for a furnished lease it can reach two months' rent excluding charges. Rules for rent revision and increases are governed by law and official indices.
- Check the deposit amount stated in the contract and keep all payment receipts.
- Review the annual rent revision clause and the reference index used.
- Request a receipt for each rent payment and keep the quittances.
Préavis et rupture de bail
Notice periods vary: for an unfurnished lease the notice is generally three months (reduced to one month in certain zones or situations), while for a furnished lease the notice is often one month. The tenant may give notice without stating a reason but must respect the legal time limit and the notification method (registered letter or bailiff's act).
Réparations et entretien
The distinction between routine repairs (maintenance) and major repairs is essential: the tenant covers routine maintenance, while the landlord must ensure structural repairs and the dwelling's habitability.
- Perform routine maintenance (heating, minor repairs, lightbulb replacement).
- Inform the landlord in writing of major repairs and request coverage.
Résolution des litiges
Before going to court, favor conciliation: the departmental conciliation commission can help reach an amicable agreement. If necessary, the case can be brought before the judicial court. Keep all documents: contract, inventory of fixtures, receipts, letters, photos.
- Contact the CDC or a local housing assistance service for advice.
- Gather evidence and correspondence before any court filing.
FAQ
- What is the amount of the security deposit for a furnished and an unfurnished lease?
- For an unfurnished lease the deposit is generally one month's rent; for a furnished lease it can reach two months' rent.
- What notice must I respect to leave a furnished or unfurnished dwelling?
- The notice for a furnished lease is generally one month; for an unfurnished lease it is in principle three months, reduced to one month in some cases.
- Who pays for repairs?
- The tenant performs routine maintenance and minor repairs; the landlord is responsible for major repairs and the habitability guarantee.
How to
- Gather all documents: contract, inventory of fixtures, receipts, dated photos.
- Contact the landlord to request an amicable resolution in writing.
- If agreement fails, contact the departmental conciliation commission or send a formal notice by registered letter.
- As a last resort, prepare a file and bring the case to the judicial court with all evidence.
Key takeaways
- Always check the lease type and clauses before signing.
- Keep written proof and photos at the inventory of fixtures.
Aide et ressources
- [1] Service-public.fr - Contract and inventory of fixtures
- [2] Legifrance - Official texts on residential leases