Pets and Tenancy: Tenant Rights in France

Living with a pet in a rented home raises many questions for tenants in France. Can a landlord refuse a dog or a cat? Can the lease ban all animals? Who pays for damage caused by a pet? This article explains in plain terms the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords, possible lease clauses, exceptions (assistance animals), and the steps to take in case of dispute. You will also find practical advice on documenting nuisances, requesting repairs and using official remedies without legal jargon. The goal is to help you protect your rights and keep a peaceful coexistence with your landlord.

What the law says and your rights

The rental of a dwelling is governed by Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989 and its amendments; these texts define the landlord's obligations and the tenant's rights regarding use of the premises and repairs^[1]. A lease clause can set rules on the presence of animals, but it must remain proportionate and comply with applicable contract and statutory provisions.

Lease clause and exceptions

Some clauses banning pets do exist, but they can be challenged if they are abusive or impossible to apply. Assistance animals (guide dogs, etc.) are protected and cannot be excluded by a lease clause. To see what a standard contract includes, consult the model lease and the information on the inventory of fixtures provided by public services^[2].

What to do if your pet causes damage or nuisance

If damage or nuisance occurs, follow an orderly process: inform the landlord, document the facts, propose repairs if you are responsible, and use conciliation channels before any judicial procedure.

• Document the damage with dated photos and precise notes.
• Inform the landlord in writing (registered letter or email with proof) and keep receipts.
• Propose or carry out necessary repairs if you are responsible for the damage.
• Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court if the dispute continues.

FAQ

Can a lease ban all animals?

No. A clause may limit pets if justified by safety or preservation of the premises, but it cannot prevent the presence of an assistance animal[1].

Who pays for repairs caused by my pet?

In principle, the tenant must repair damage caused by their pet. The landlord may seek compensation or deduct from the security deposit if the damage exceeds normal wear and tear.

What to do if the landlord threatens eviction because of a pet?

Keep evidence, reply in writing, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission and, as a last resort, the judicial court to contest an eviction measure[3].

How-To

1. Check the lease clause carefully and the applicable legal provisions.
2. Document the facts: photos, videos, witness statements and dates.
3. Send a formal notice or dispute by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt.
4. Contact the departmental conciliation commission for amicable mediation.
5. Bring the case to the judicial court if conciliation fails and your rights remain affected.

Key takeaways

• Always keep dated proof of any damage or nuisance caused by a pet.
• Send written notifications by registered mail to maintain official records.
• Use the departmental conciliation commission before initiating judicial proceedings.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Service-public.fr — Model lease and inventory of fixtures
• [2] Legifrance — Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989
• [3] Service-public.fr — Departmental conciliation commission

1. [1] Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989 — Legifrance
2. [2] Model lease and inventory of fixtures — Service-public.fr
3. [3] Departmental conciliation commission — Service-public.fr