Furnished or Unfurnished Lease: Tenant Guide France
Being a tenant in France means knowing the rules that distinguish a furnished lease from an unfurnished lease. These contracts differ on minimum duration, notice periods, security deposit amount, inventory of fixtures and the repair obligations of the landlord and tenant. Knowing which clauses to check helps you choose the right home, manage a work request or a rent increase, and act quickly in case of a dispute. This practical guide explains in simple terms your rights, the steps to follow and the official resources useful to guide you and protect your tenant interests.
Les différences essentielles
Durée et congé
The furnished lease is generally concluded for a duration of one year, or nine months for a student lease. The unfurnished lease usually has a minimum duration of three years when the landlord is an individual (and can be six years if the landlord is a legal entity). These durations affect the rules on notice and renewal. [1]
Dépôt de garantie
The security deposit varies by lease type: for an unfurnished dwelling, it is generally one month's rent excluding charges; for a furnished dwelling, it can be up to two months. The deposit must be returned after the move-out inventory, with justified deductions for repairs.
Loyer, révision et charges
- The initial rent may differ between furnished and unfurnished due to furniture and equipment provided.
- The annual rent revision follows the legal index provided in the contract.
- Service charges must be justified and detailed by the landlord.
Préavis et formalités
The tenant's notice period is one month for a furnished lease and three months for an unfurnished lease. In some cases (tense zones, professional mobility, or specific aid situations), the notice for an unfurnished lease can be reduced to one month. Respecting these deadlines is essential to avoid deductions from the security deposit.
État des lieux et inventaire
The move-in and move-out inventory is mandatory and allows comparison of the property's condition. For a furnished lease, an inventory of furniture must accompany the inventory. Keep a signed copy to protect yourself in case of dispute. [2]
Entretien et réparations
The tenant must take care of routine maintenance and minor repairs. The landlord is responsible for repairs necessary to maintain the property in usable condition and ensuring decency (heating, plumbing, etc.). In case of urgent works affecting health or safety, contact the landlord immediately in writing.
What to check before signing
- Check the lease duration and the conditions for renewal or termination.
- Confirm the security deposit amount and the return conditions.
- Require an inventory of fixtures and, for a furnished lease, a precise inventory of the furniture.
FAQ
- What is the minimum duration of a furnished and unfurnished lease?
- Generally, the furnished lease is one year (nine months for a student lease) and the unfurnished lease is three years for a private landlord (six years if the landlord is a legal entity).
- What is the maximum amount of the security deposit?
- For an unfurnished dwelling, the deposit is usually one month's rent excluding charges; for a furnished dwelling, it can be up to two months' rent excluding charges.
- What notice must I give to leave the property?
- The tenant must give one month's notice for a furnished lease and three months for an unfurnished lease, except in particular circumstances allowing a reduction to one month.
How-To
- Gather all evidence: photos, emails, receipts and the inventory of fixtures.
- Contact the landlord first to attempt an amicable resolution, keeping written proof of communication.
- Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission if discussion fails.
- As a last resort, bring the case before the judicial court.
Key takeaways
- Furnished and unfurnished leases have different rules on duration and deposits.
- Respect notice periods and keep all written evidence.
Help and support
- Model lease template (Service-public)
- Inventory of fixtures: template and explanation (Service-public)
- Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989 (Legifrance)
