Move-out inventory in France: who pays, tenant?
As a tenant in France, understanding who must pay move-out inventory fees avoids unpleasant surprises at the start or end of the lease. This formal step records the condition of the accommodation and may generate fees for preparing the document, especially if a professional is involved. This clear practical guide explains which situations require tenant payment, what amounts are common, how costs are split between parties, and what steps to take to contest a bill or obtain a refund. We cite rules applicable to unfurnished and furnished rentals and indicate deadlines and remedies to protect your rights as a tenant in France.
Who pays the inventory of fixtures?
The general rule from rental regulations indicates that financial conditions related to the inventory depend on the agreement between the parties and on the service provided by a professional [1]. When the inventory is carried out by the landlord or their agent as part of a standard lease, no significant additional fees are automatically charged to the tenant without agreement. If an agency or bailiff intervenes and the service is charged, the allocation may vary according to the lease contract.
Move-in and move-out inventories
The move-in inventory is used to compare the condition of the accommodation at departure; the document protects both tenant and landlord and its completion is explained by the public service [2]. If a professional is engaged solely at the tenant's request, the tenant generally bears the cost. If the intervention is joint or requested by the landlord, the bill can be shared or charged according to the agreement.
Amounts and allocation
- Fees charged to the tenant (payment): optional services requested by the tenant themselves.
- Fees borne by the landlord (payment): interventions requested by the lessor or included in their obligations.
- Deduction from the security deposit (deposit): only proven damage can justify a deduction from the deposit.
How to contest a bill?
- Gather evidence and documents (photos, email exchanges, inventory) to support your dispute (evidence).
- Send a written dispute to the landlord or agency requesting a breakdown of the charges and a refund if applicable (form).
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission if discussions do not lead to an agreement before taking legal action (assistance).
- As a last resort, bring the case before the judicial court providing all evidence (court).
FAQ
- Who should pay the move-in inventory?
- If the inventory is carried out by the landlord as part of the lease, the tenant is not automatically required to pay unless otherwise agreed; it depends on billed services and the contract.
- Can a tenant refuse a paid inventory?
- Yes, the tenant can refuse a paid service they did not request; in case of dispute they can contact the CDC or the court.
- Can a bailiff be instructed for the inventory?
- Yes, a bailiff can draw up an inventory but their fees are often high and allocation depends on who instructs them.
How-To
- Gather all lease documents and previous inventories (evidence).
- Send a letter or registered email containing the dispute and the evidence to the lessor (form).
- Request conciliation via the Departmental Conciliation Commission if necessary (assistance).
- Take the case to the judicial court as a last resort with the full dossier (court).
