Notice for repossession: tenant rights in France

When can the landlord repossess?

The landlord can give a repossession notice only at the end of the lease and for limited reasons: repossession to occupy the dwelling, repossession to house a close relative or sale of the property. The notice must be delivered in writing and clearly state the reason and the date on which the tenant must vacate the premises. Repossession is strictly governed by law, notably Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989 which protects tenants' rights in France.^[1]

Procedure and deadlines

Notice periods depend on the type of lease: for an unfurnished dwelling, the landlord must respect a six-month notice period before the end of the lease; for a furnished dwelling, the notice is generally three months. The notice must be notified by a bailiff's writ or by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt in some cases, and must contain the information required by law.^[2]

What to check on the notice received

• Check the end-of-lease date and consistency with the notice period.
• Confirm the stated reason (repossession to occupy, to house a relative, sale).
• Request written justification if the reason seems insufficient.
• Keep all correspondence and proof of sending or receipt.

What to do as a tenant?

If you receive a repossession notice, start by verifying its validity (reason, form, deadlines). If the notice is irregular or you contest the reason, you can refer the matter to the Departmental Conciliation Commission or the competent court. First try a written negotiation with the landlord to find an agreement (extension, compensation or rehousing assistance).^[3]

Templates and practical steps

Useful steps include sending a registered letter to request clarifications, referring the matter to the conciliation commission, or initiating proceedings before the judicial court if necessary. Keep a copy of every dispatch and the acknowledgments of receipt. You can seek help from a tenants' association or a lawyer if the situation is complex.

FAQ

What is a repossession notice?

The repossession notice is a notice given by the landlord aiming to recover the dwelling at the end of the lease in order to occupy it, house a relative or sell the property.

What are the notice periods?

For an unfurnished lease, the landlord's notice is six months; for a furnished lease, it is generally three months.

Can I contest a repossession notice?

Yes, if the notice is irregular (invalid form or reason) you can contact the Departmental Conciliation Commission and then the judicial court.

Must the landlord offer compensation?

There is no automatic compensation unless agreed between the parties or ordered by a court; in case of unlawful eviction, damages may be claimed.

How to

1. Immediately check the end date and the form of the notice.
2. Request written justification from the landlord.
3. Contact the Departmental Conciliation Commission for mediation.
4. If conciliation fails, prepare a dossier and bring the case to the judicial court.
5. Consult a tenants' association or a lawyer for legal support.

Key points

• Repossession is only possible at the end of the lease and for regulated reasons.
• Respect the deadlines and the required form: irregularity can void the notice.
• Conciliation is an important step before any judicial action.

Help and support / Resources

• Repossession notice - Service-public
• Legifrance - Official texts
• Departmental Conciliation Commission - Service-public

1. [1] Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989
2. [2] Service-public - Notice given by the landlord
3. [3] Service-public - Departmental Conciliation Commission