Filing CDC disputes: tenants in France
If you are a tenant in France and face a dispute with your landlord — for example over a rent increase, unfinished repairs or a contested inventory of fixtures — filing with the Commission départementale de conciliation (CDC) is often a useful first step before going to the judicial court. The CDC offers free mediation and can help reach an agreement without court proceedings. This guide clearly explains the differences between the CDC and the court, the conditions to open a file, the deadlines to respect, the evidence to prepare and the practical steps to submit a request. It is aimed at tenants without legal training who want to defend their rights effectively and calmly.
What does the Commission départementale de conciliation do?
The Commission départementale de conciliation (CDC) is a free mediation body that helps tenants and landlords find an amicable agreement on tenancy disputes, repairs, rent payment or inventory of fixtures.
The CDC helps parties seek an amicable agreement between tenant and landlord.
Differences between the CDC and the judicial court
- The CDC is a mediation body without binding power; the court can render an enforceable decision.
- Timelines: the CDC aims for a quick process; going to court can take several months.
- Costs: filing with the CDC is free; court proceedings may incur fees.
- Choice: if the CDC fails, the dispute can be brought before the judicial court.
Respond to summonses and meet deadlines to preserve your rights.
How to file with the CDC (steps)
- Fill out the form or write a request describing the dispute and your claims.
- Attach documents: lease, inventories of fixtures, photos and written exchanges as support.
- Send the request within the applicable deadlines and note the sending date.
- Follow the summons and attend the conciliation meeting.
- If no agreement is reached, decide whether to escalate to the judicial court with legal advice if desired.
Keep a copy of all documents sent and proofs of receipt.
Documents to prepare
- The lease agreement and annexes (diagnostics, rent receipts).
- The inventory of fixtures at move-in and move-out, with photos if possible.
- Correspondence exchanged with the landlord (letters, e‑mails, SMS).
- Evidence of repair requests or habitability issues (invoices, formal notices).
FAQ
- Is filing with the CDC mandatory before going to court?
- No, it is not always mandatory, but it is often recommended as a preliminary step to attempt an amicable agreement.
- Can the CDC impose a decision?
- No, the CDC seeks conciliation and does not issue enforceable judgments; only a court decision is enforceable.
- How long does it take to receive a summons?
- Timelines vary by department, but the summons usually takes place within a few weeks; keep your evidence and availability up to date.
How to
- Find the form or local procedure on the service-public.fr website and note the CDC contact details.[1]
- Gather evidence and write a clear account of the facts.
- Send your file by registered mail or according to the indicated method and keep proof of sending.
- Attend the conciliation session and, if needed, request help from an association or a lawyer.
- If conciliation fails, prepare the file to bring the case to the judicial court; the 1989 law governs residential leases.[2]
Key takeaways
- The CDC promotes a quick and cost-free solution for tenants.
- Respecting deadlines and keeping evidence improves the chances of a favorable outcome.
