Lease termination letter template in France
As a tenant in France, terminating a lease requires following specific rules: notice periods, permitted reasons and the formal requirements of the termination letter. This article explains step by step how to write a clear template letter, what information to include (identity, rented address, desired move-out date), and how to send it to protect your rights. You will also find applicable deadlines depending on the area and situation (transfer, job loss, health), sample wordings and practical tips to keep records. The goal is to help you act calmly, avoid mistakes that delay moving out and know the remedies available in case of a dispute.
When to terminate a lease?
Lease termination is governed by Loi n° 89-462 du 6 juillet 1989[2] and its amendments. Depending on the situation (tight market area, legitimate reason) notice periods and formalities vary.
- Respect the legal notice period according to the area and your situation.
- Notify the landlord by letter or by the required formal means.
- If there is a habitability problem, report repairs to the landlord before terminating.
Drafting the letter template
Sample letter
Your name and surname
Rented address
Landlord's name and address
Date
Subject: Lease termination
Dear Sir or Madam,
I hereby inform you of my decision to terminate the lease for the property located at [address], in accordance with the applicable notice. The desired move-out date is [dd/mm/yyyy].
Please contact me to arrange the inventory of fixtures and the handover of keys.
Sincerely,
Signature
Clearly state the receipt date/notice and reference the contract if possible [1].
How to
- Check the notice period applicable to your situation.
- Write the letter including your contact details, the property address and the move-out date.
- Send the letter and keep proof of sending and a signed copy.
- In case of dispute, contact the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court.
FAQ
- What is the notice period for a tenant?
- Generally 3 months, reduced to 1 month in tight market areas or for certain legitimate reasons; check your exact situation.
- Do I need to send registered mail?
- Registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt is not always mandatory but provides strong evidence if contested.
- What happens if I do not respect the notice?
- The landlord may claim rent until the end of the notice period and withhold amounts from the security deposit if the property is not vacated.
