Repairing a Water Leak: Tenants' Rights in France

What to do in case of a water leak?

A water leak should be reported quickly to limit damage and protect your rights as a tenant in France. Start by notifying the landlord, document the situation, and follow the steps below to know who is responsible for repairs and when to consider conciliation or legal action.

• Contact the landlord immediately in writing (email or letter) and describe the leak precisely.
• Take photos and, if possible, a short video to keep evidence^[1].
• If the leak poses a risk or significant damage, shut off the water and, if necessary, call a professional to limit damage.

Responsibilities and deadlines

Generally, the landlord must keep the dwelling in good condition and carry out necessary repairs to maintain decency and habitability. The tenant must inform the landlord without delay and may be responsible for repairs if they caused the leak. Keep written exchanges, invoices and photos to justify your actions^[2].

When can the tenant act directly?

If urgency prevents waiting for the landlord (risk of flooding, electrical damage), the tenant can arrange repairs and request reimbursement, provided the landlord was informed in advance and receipts are kept.

Procedure in case of refusal or inaction

• Send a follow-up to the landlord by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt describing the damage and the desired timeframe for intervention.
• Gather evidence: dated photos, written exchanges, quotes or invoices.
• If inaction continues, refer the case to the departmental conciliation commission (CDC) and, ultimately, to the judicial court to assert your rights^[3].

FAQ

Who pays for repairing a water leak?

The landlord bears the cost of repairs necessary to maintain the dwelling in good condition, unless the leak is due to the tenant's fault or poor maintenance by the tenant.

What if the landlord does not respond?

Follow up in writing, contact the CDC for conciliation, and then the judicial court if needed.

Can I have repairs done and be reimbursed?

Yes, in an emergency and after informing the landlord, keep quotes and invoices to request reimbursement.

How to

1. Contact the landlord immediately in writing and specify the date and nature of the leak.
2. Document the damage with dated photos and videos.
3. If urgent, shut off the water and have a professional limit the damage, then keep invoices.
4. If the landlord remains inactive, contact the CDC then the judicial court.

Key takeaways

• Notify in writing and keep all evidence.
• The landlord is usually responsible for structural repairs.
• Use the CDC before starting legal proceedings.

Help and resources

• Contact Service-public.fr for tenant procedures
• Consult legislation on Legifrance

1. [1] Legifrance — Loi n° 89-462 du 6 juillet 1989
2. [2] Service-public.fr — Practical information for tenants
3. [3] Service-public.fr — Departmental conciliation commission (CDC)