Receipts & Certificates for Tenants in France
In shared housing, rent receipts and certificates are often necessary to prove payment, obtain benefits or justify an address. In France, housemates need to know when and how to request these documents, who can issue them depending on whether the lease is joint or individual, and which elements must appear on each proof. This article simply explains your rights and obligations as a tenant and housemate, practical steps to obtain receipts and certificates, and the remedies if a landlord refuses. You will also find templates and official references to act effectively without wasting time.
What is a receipt and a certificate?
A rent receipt is the document given by the landlord that certifies payment of rent for a given period. A certificate can cover domicile, receipt of the security deposit or payment status. These documents serve as proof for benefits (CAF, housing aid), for administrative procedures or for a future lease. For official definitions and landlord obligations see official sources[1] and the applicable legal framework[2].
Who can request these documents in shared housing?
- Each housemate can request their own rent receipt (receipt) to prove a payment.
- The leaseholder receives documents first, depending on whether the lease is joint or individual (notice).
- In case of disagreement, contact the departmental conciliation commission or seek assistance (contact).
What must a receipt or certificate contain?
A receipt or certificate must indicate at least the landlord's name and address, the name of the tenant or tenants concerned, the covered period, the details of amounts paid (rent, charges) and the landlord's signature. The content must comply with legal mentions and allow clear identification of the payment or administrative status[2].
Procedures and evidence to gather
- Always request a written receipt after payment, even partial, and keep the receipt (written receipt).
- Collect evidence: transfers, bank statements and exchanged emails (document).
- Send a formal request by registered letter or email and note the sending date (notice).
FAQ
- Can a housemate obtain an individual receipt if the lease is joint?
- Yes, the landlord can issue individualized receipts if housemates request them or if payments are separate.
- Can the landlord charge for issuing a receipt?
- No, issuing a rent receipt is free for the tenant when payment has been made.
- What to do if the landlord refuses to provide a certificate or receipt?
- Contact the landlord in writing first, then the departmental conciliation commission. As a last resort, the judicial court may be seized.
How to
- Write a clear request specifying the period and type of document requested (notice).
- Send the request by email and, if necessary, by registered letter to keep proof (contact).
- Attach proof of payments and keep acknowledgements of receipt (document).
- If the landlord refuses, contact the departmental conciliation commission before initiating legal proceedings (court).
Key points
- The receipt proves payment and must be issued free of charge by the landlord.
- Always request documents in writing and keep all evidence.
- If refused, use conciliation before starting judicial action.
