Quarterly IRL: rent index for tenants in France
Understanding the Rent Reference Index (IRL) helps tenants check whether a rent increase complies with the law. In France, the quarterly IRL is used to review rent amounts when provided for in the lease. This article simply explains how the IRL is calculated, the steps to apply an increase, your rights as a tenant, deadlines to respect and possible remedies in case of error or abuse. Practical examples and steps toward official services will help you act calmly when faced with a rent increase and protect your housing budget.
How the IRL is calculated
The IRL compares the quarterly change of an index published by INSEE and serves as the basis for rent indexation when the lease provides for it [1]. The simple calculation is to apply the proportional change of the index to the last rent excluding charges.The IRL is published every quarter by INSEE.
When the lease can use it
- If the rental contract contains an indexation clause for the rent (indexation clause, rent).
- If the clause specifies the periodicity (quarterly, annual) and the calculation formula (formula, clause).
- If the revision deadlines are respected (date, deadline, before, after).
Always check the exact presence and wording of the clause in your lease.
How to check an increase
To check a rent increase, request a written justification and redo the calculation yourself: multiply the reference rent by the ratio of indices (new IRL / old IRL) and round according to what is provided.
- Calculate the proposed amount and compare it to the result of the formula (amount, rent).
- Keep all evidence: letters, calculations, exchanges and receipts (documents, proof).
- Contact official services or the departmental conciliation commission if necessary (contact, help).
Written proof of the calculation makes amicable resolution easier in case of dispute.
FAQ
- What is the IRL?
- The IRL is the rent reference index used to index certain leases and reflects the change of an index published periodically by INSEE.
- My lease does not mention indexation, can the landlord increase the rent?
- No, without a written indexation clause in the contract, the landlord cannot apply the IRL to increase the rent during the lease.
- Where can I find official templates or procedures?
- Information and procedures are available on official sites such as Service-public for documents and practical rules [2].
How-To
- Check the indexation clause in the lease and note the reference date (check, clause).
- Calculate the new rent by applying the provided formula and prepare supporting documents (calculation, amount).
- Contact the landlord to request the written explanation; if disagreement persists, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission or the competent court (contact, court).
