Inventory and Security Deposit for Renters in France

As a renter in France, understanding the inventory report and the calculation of the security deposit is essential to protect your rights and avoid conflicts with the landlord. This guide explains, in clear terms, how the move-in and move-out inventory reports take place, which elements affect possible deductions, and what deadlines apply for the refund of the deposit. You will also find practical advice for documenting the condition of the property, contesting an unjust deduction and initiating mediation or proceedings before the judicial court if necessary. Official references and useful administrative steps are indicated to guide you step by step.

Avant l'état des lieux

Before the inventory report, prepare evidence and check your rights. The basic rules and sample inventory forms are explained by the public service and by the applicable law in France^[1][2].

État des lieux : entrée et sortie

During the inventory report, note the condition of each room, the equipment and the meters. Be precise about damage, wear and the repairs to be expected.

• Photograph all rooms and items (photo).
• Keep documents: lease, receipts, invoices (document).
• Record access, locks and keys (entry).
• Note habitability issues: heating, plumbing, mold (repair).

Calculation and refund of the security deposit

The security deposit is used to cover possible tenant repairs. The amount and deductions must be justified by invoices or estimates. The legal refund deadlines vary depending on the situation and are specified by the public service^[1].

• Deduction for justified tenant repairs (deposit).
• Assessment based on an estimate or invoice provided by the landlord (document).
• No deduction for normal wear and tear (warning).

FAQ

What is an inventory report?

The inventory report is a written document describing the condition of the property at move-in and move-out, signed by the tenant and the landlord.

How is the security deposit calculated?

The deposit is refunded after deduction of amounts justified by repairs beyond normal wear, upon presentation of estimates or invoices.

What is the refund deadline for the deposit?

The deadline depends on possible deductions: generally one month if the move-out inventory matches the move-in, up to two months if repairs are deducted.

Comment faire

1. Gather evidence and documents before the inventory report (photo, document).
2. Carry out the move-in inventory report and note any anomalies.
3. Compare the move-out inventory report and request the refund of the deposit.
4. If necessary, contest in writing and refer to the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court.

Key takeaways

• Act within legal deadlines for refunds and disputes.
• Document the condition of the property with dated photos.
• Request estimates or invoices for any deduction from the deposit.

Help and Support

• Service-public.fr - Inventory reports
• Service-public.fr - Security deposit
• Legifrance.gouv.fr - Law n°89-462

1. [1] Service-public.fr - État des lieux
2. [2] Legifrance.gouv.fr - Loi n°89-462 du 6 juillet 1989