Rent Indexation (IRL) for Tenants in France
Are you a tenant in France and seeing your rent change? This article explains plainly what the Rent Reference Index (IRL) is, how indexation is calculated and what your rights are under the law to contest an increase. You will find practical steps to check the indexation clause, calculate the expected increase, keep evidence and contact the departmental conciliation commission or the court if needed[1][2]. The goal is to give you clear, accessible actions, without jargon, to protect your budget and your rights as a tenant in France.
Understanding the IRL and rent indexation
The IRL is published periodically and serves as the basis for rent revisions when the lease contains an indexation clause. Indexation can only occur if the rental contract explicitly specifies the method and periodicity of revision. The calculation is based on the change in the index between two reference dates stated in the clause.
- What is the IRL: official index used for rent revision.
- How the increase is calculated: official formula based on the index variation between two periods.
- Indexation clause: must be written in the lease to be enforceable.
- Limits and protections: check the periodicity and terms provided by law.
How to check a proposed increase
To verify an increase, retrieve the indexation clause in your lease, note the reference date and index mentioned, then apply the calculation formula. Also check that the landlord informed you according to the required procedures (in writing, indicating the new rent value).
- Dates: check the reference date and frequency (typically annual).
- Amount: calculate the new rent from the formula specified in the lease.
- Notification: request a written explanation from the landlord if the calculation does not match.
Remedies and steps to contest
If you believe the increase is incorrect or abusive, start by contacting the landlord formally and request the calculation supporting documents. If the response is unsatisfactory, bring the matter to the departmental conciliation commission when applicable, then ultimately to the judicial court.
- Written: send a registered letter or an email with proof of receipt.
- Evidence: attach the lease, calculations and exchanges with the landlord.
- Conciliation: contact the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court if necessary.
FAQ
- Does a lease without an indexation clause allow an increase?
- No. Without a written clause in the contract, the landlord cannot automatically apply rent indexation.
- How do I check the calculation of an indexed increase?
- Use the formula stated in the lease and compare it to the index published between the two reference dates.
- What remedies do I have if the landlord applies the IRL incorrectly?
- Contact the landlord, then bring the case to the departmental conciliation commission or, as a last resort, the judicial court.
How to
- Re-read the indexation clause in the lease and note the reference dates.
- Calculate the index variation and apply the provided formula to obtain the new rent.
- Contact the landlord to obtain supporting documents and request a correction if necessary.
- Bring the matter to the departmental conciliation commission, then to the judicial court as a last resort.
Key takeaways
- A written clause is required to index rent.
- The calculation follows a precise formula tied to the IRL.
- Keep all exchanges and evidence for conciliation or court proceedings.
