Rent Revaluation at Renewal for Tenants in France

As a tenant in France, understanding the conditions and required documents for a rent revaluation at renewal is essential to protect your rights. This page explains, in clear language, when the landlord can request an increase, which documents they must present (comparables, indices, works), and what evidence you can gather to challenge the request. You will also find the deadlines to respect, administrative steps and practical advice for communicating with your landlord or contacting the departmental conciliation commission. The goal is to give you a concrete roadmap to act calmly when faced with a proposed revaluation.

When can the rent be revalued?

Revaluation at renewal is not automatic: it depends on the lease clauses (indexation clause) and respect of local rent control rules when applicable^[1]. If the lease includes an indexation clause, the increase follows the specified index. In the absence of a clause or if the increase exceeds the index, the landlord must justify the increase with comparable elements or improvement works.

Which documents must the landlord provide?

• Comparables of rents for similar housing nearby or in the same category.
• Calculation proof if the increase is based on an index or a scale.
• Estimates and invoices for works improving the property's performance or comfort.
• Copy of the invoked lease clause and written notifications sent to the tenant.

Procedures and deadlines

The landlord should normally notify you in writing of any proposed rent change at the time of renewal. You have deadlines to respond and, if necessary, to contest the request before the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court depending on the case^[3].

• Reply to the landlord within the indicated time limits to avoid losing remedies.
• Contact the departmental conciliation commission for an amicable attempt.
• If conciliation fails, bring the matter before the judicial court.

FAQ

Can the landlord freely revalue the rent at renewal?

No. The revaluation depends on the lease and applicable rent control or indexation rules; it must be justified and communicated in writing to the tenant.

Which documents should I request from the landlord?

Request the lease clause, indexation calculations, rent comparables and invoices for works if they claim improvements.

What if I dispute the proposed increase?

First try the departmental conciliation commission, then, if necessary, bring the case to the judicial court with all supporting documents.

How to

1. Contact the landlord to request the revaluation supporting documents in writing.
2. Gather your evidence: lease, receipts, photos, estimates and local comparables.
3. Contact the departmental conciliation commission if negotiation fails.
4. As a last resort, prepare a file for the judicial court with assistance if needed.

Help and Support / Resources

• Practical guide to the rental contract - Service-public.fr
• Law n°89-462 of July 6, 1989 - Legifrance
• Legal texts and applicable articles - Legifrance

1. [1] Loi n°89-462 du 6 juillet 1989 - Legifrance
2. [2] Modèle de contrat et informations pratiques - Service-public.fr
3. [3] Informations légales et articles applicables - Legifrance