Renewal Fees for Tenants in France
As a tenant in France, it is natural to wonder whether fees can be requested during a lease renewal or when signing an amendment. The rules governing this topic are based on the 1989 law and its updates, and they clearly distinguish authorized charges from prohibited practices. This guide simply explains what an agency or landlord can demand, how to check the legality of a bill, what remedies exist with the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court, and which proofs to keep daily to protect yourself. You will also find concrete steps if you need to challenge a charge or request information.
What does the law say?
Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989 governs rental relationships and sets rules on charges and fees applicable to residential leases in France [1]. The texts specify notably the fees that can be charged and those that are rarely payable by the tenant.
Allowed and prohibited fees
- Drafting fees for an amendment can sometimes be charged, but their nature and amount must be justified (fee).
- Agency fees for renewal are strictly regulated: in practice, the tenant is often not liable for new fees (fee).
- Observe deadlines to contest: act quickly after receiving a questionable bill (deadline).
In general, a tenant is not responsible for agency fees related to renewal without a clear contractual mention.
What to do to contest?
Start by requesting a written explanation from the agency or landlord and keep all exchanges and receipts. If the response is insufficient, you may refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission, then to the judicial court if necessary [2][3]. Keep the lease, the inventory of fixtures and all invoices or messages related to the claim.
FAQ
- Can renewal fees be charged to the tenant?
- Generally, fees related to a renewal are regulated by law and should not be claimed from the tenant without legal basis or a clear clause.
- How do I contest a fee bill?
- First request written proof, then refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission; as a last resort, you may go before the judicial court.
- What evidence should I keep?
- Keep the lease, the inventory of fixtures, written exchanges, invoices and all payment receipts.
How to
- Check the lease and the bill to identify the legal basis and amounts claimed (document).
- Contact the landlord or agency in writing to request proof and possible correction (call).
- Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission if amicable agreement fails (form).
- As a last resort, file a claim with the judicial court with the available evidence (court).
Key takeaways
- Always keep the lease and inventory of fixtures as evidence in case of dispute.
- Request written justification before paying any contested amount.
- Respect deadlines to refer to the Commission or the court to preserve your rights.
Help and resources
- [1] Legifrance — Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989
- [2] Service-public.fr — Model rental contract and tenant information
- [3] Service-public.fr — Departmental conciliation commission
