Tenants in France: Furnished vs Unfurnished Lease
As a tenant in France, understanding the difference between a furnished lease and an unfurnished lease is essential for your rights, the length of the tenancy, the security deposit and the notice period. This practical guide simply explains the obligations of the tenant and the landlord, the rules on rent setting, the inventory of fixtures, and remedies in case of repairs or disputes. You will find concrete steps to contest an increase, prepare a file in case of eviction, and appeal to the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court if necessary. Official references and contract templates are listed at the end of the page to help you with your procedures.
What are the types of leases in France?
Under French law, the two most common forms are the furnished lease and the unfurnished lease. A furnished lease includes accommodation equipped with furniture and a minimum list of items, while an unfurnished lease concerns accommodation without furniture. Law n°89-462 governs residential leases and sets many rules applicable to both regimes[1].
The type of lease affects duration, deposit and notice period.
Main differences between furnished and unfurnished leases
- Minimum duration: furnished lease generally 1 year (9 months for students), unfurnished lease 3 years for a private landlord.
- Security deposit: often higher for furnished leases depending on the agreement, check the contract and local regulations.
- Tenant notice period: furnished 1 month, unfurnished 3 months (reduced to 1 month in certain high-demand areas or specific cases).
- Inventory of fixtures: mandatory for both at move-in and move-out; it serves as evidence for retaining or returning the deposit.
- Rent setting and revision: may be regulated depending on the zone and the type of lease; consult local rules and the contract.
- Charges and repairs: the lease specifies who pays what; major repairs are the landlord's responsibility.
Keep all documents and photos to prove the condition of the property at move-in and move-out.
If you have any doubt about a clause or a request from the landlord, request the model contract or the advice of a competent administrative authority before signing[2].
Always check the inventory of fixtures and take timestamped photos at the start of the lease.
FAQ
- What is the notice period for a furnished lease?
- The standard notice period for a tenant under a furnished lease is one month. Certain circumstances (high-demand zone, job loss, transfer) can also allow a reduced notice.
- What does the security deposit cover and how much is it?
- The deposit covers unpaid rent and repairs beyond normal wear and tear. Its amount depends on the lease and applicable rules; check the contract and local regulations.
- What to do in case of eviction or dispute over repairs?
- Gather evidence and written exchanges, attempt conciliation via the departmental conciliation commission, then bring the case to the judicial court if necessary.
How-To
- Gather documents: lease, rent receipts, inventory of fixtures, photos and written exchanges.
- Contact the landlord in writing to state your request and keep a copy.
- Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission for amicable mediation if the conflict persists.
- As a last resort, prepare a complete file for the judicial court if conciliation fails.
Always respond to notifications within deadlines to avoid losing rights.
Key takeaways
- The lease type determines duration, deposit and applicable notice.
- Perform a precise inventory of fixtures and keep evidence to avoid disputes.
- Use conciliation before initiating court proceedings.
Help and resources
- Tenant and landlord guide - Service-public.fr
- Official texts and codes - Legifrance
- Lease templates and inventory of fixtures - Service-public.fr
