Rent Review Deadlines for Tenants in France
Understanding the legal deadlines for the annual rent review helps the tenant anticipate an increase and assert their rights in France. This article simply explains when and how a landlord may review the rent, which indexation formula (IRL) applies, what notifications are required and what remedies exist if you contest an increase. You will find practical steps to check the indexation clause, calculate the new amount, keep evidence and bring the matter to the appropriate authorities. The explanations take into account the 1989 law[1] and administrative practices for residential leases in France, so you can respond with clarity and security.
Legal deadlines
As a rule, rent revision only takes place if the lease includes an indexation clause. That clause specifies the review date (often annual) and the formula linked to the Rent Reference Index (IRL). Without a clause, the rent cannot be automatically revised unless there is a written agreement between tenant and landlord. The landlord must respect the contractual date and periodicity stated in the lease.[1]
Calculation and notification
- Review date specified in the lease (month and year): check the clause.
- Rent Reference Index (IRL) and formula: the increase is calculated according to the IRL published by INSEE and the contractual formula.
- Written notification by the landlord: the increase must be clearly notified and indicate the new amount and calculation.
- No indexation clause: there is no automatic increase without written agreement.
Special cases
- Short-term lease or renewal: the clause can be renegotiated at renewal.
- Excessive increase or calculation error: you can request the supporting documents and contest it.
- Works or improvements: an increase linked to works must follow precise rules and be justified.
Documents and evidence
Gather the lease, the indexation clause, the notifications received, and the calculation proposed by the landlord. Take dated screenshots or copies and keep all correspondence. These items will be useful for a conciliation commission or the court if necessary.
Foire aux questions
- Can the landlord increase the rent at any time?
- No. The increase must comply with the indexation clause in the lease and the agreed periodicity; without a clause, there is no automatic increase.
- How do I check the IRL-based revision calculation?
- Compare the IRL used by the landlord with the one published by INSEE and apply the lease formula to recalculate the new rent.
- What if I contest an increase?
- First contact the landlord, request the calculation details, then seize the Commission départementale de conciliation or, if necessary, the judicial tribunal.
How to
- Check the indexation clause and the review date stated in your lease.
- Recalculate the rent by applying the published IRL and the contractual formula to verify accuracy.
- Contact the landlord in writing to request supporting documents and propose an amicable conciliation.
- If no agreement is reached, seize the Commission départementale de conciliation, then the judicial tribunal if necessary.
Key takeaways
- Respect the date and periodicity stipulated in your lease.
- Keep all documents and evidence related to the revision.
- Favor conciliation before any legal action.
Help and Support
- [1] Legifrance — Law texts and articles (1989 law)
- [2] Service-public — Lease templates and inventory models
