Rent reduction for damp and mold in France

If you are a tenant in France and your home has damp or mold, you can request a rent reduction if the defect affects enjoyment or health. This guide explains, in clear language, when and how to request a partial rent reduction, what evidence to gather (dated photos, reports, correspondence), which amicable steps to take with the landlord, and when to refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission^[1] or the judicial court. You will also find sample letters, deadlines to respect and practical tips to preserve your rights without unnecessary escalation. The aim is to help you act quickly and safely.

What rights do tenants have?

The landlord must provide decent housing in good repair. Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989 governs residential leases and the landlord's repair obligations^[2]. If damp or mold makes the dwelling unfit for use, the tenant can request a proportional rent reduction or repairs.

Documents to gather

• Timed and descriptive photos of the issue (evidence).
• Amicable or bailiff's report if possible (evidence).
• Correspondence exchanged with the landlord (evidence).
• Medical certificates if health is affected (proof).

Amicable steps

Start by informing the landlord by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, describing the facts and attaching evidence. Propose reasonable solutions (repair, dehumidification) and keep copies of all correspondence.

• Send a registered letter to the landlord detailing the problem (form).
• Propose a meeting for an inspection or expertise (form).
• If no response, follow up in writing and keep evidence (form).

Recourse and court procedure

If amicable measures fail, you can refer the case to the departmental conciliation commission^[1] or the judicial court. The CDC attempts mediation; if unsuccessful, the court may set a rent reduction or order repairs.

• Respect deadlines indicated in your letters and in procedure.
• Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission before starting court action.
• If needed, file an application at the judicial court with your dossier.

Key takeaways

• Document everything: photos, correspondence and any official reports.
• Favor conciliation before court to solve the dispute quickly.

FAQ

1) Can I get a rent reduction if my home has mold?

Yes, if mold affects enjoyment or health, you can seek a proportional rent reduction or repairs.

2) What evidence should I provide?

Timed photos, exchanged correspondence, a bailiff's report and any relevant medical documents serve as evidence.

3) Must I always go through the conciliation commission?

It is recommended, as the departmental conciliation commission offers mediation before going to court.

How to

1. Gather evidence and document the damage.
2. Send a registered letter to the landlord requesting repairs.
3. Refer the case to the departmental conciliation commission if there is no response.
4. If conciliation fails, file with the judicial court presenting your dossier.

Help and support

• Departmental conciliation commission (contact)
• Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989 (residential leases)
• Sample lease and inventory of fixtures (service-public.fr)

1. [1] Service-public — Departmental conciliation commission
2. [2] Legifrance — Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989