Security Deposit Return for Tenants in France
As a tenant in France, recovering your security deposit after moving out requires method: respect legal deadlines, have a contradictory inventory of fixtures and proof of payments. This article simply explains your rights, the refund timeline, possible reasons for deductions and the complaint procedures to the landlord or the court. It is aimed at tenants who want to avoid common mistakes and gather useful documents (lease, receipts, photos, inventories) to speed up reimbursement. You will also find a step-by-step procedure to dispute a deduction, with official references and templates for actions.
Your rights and deadlines
The landlord has a legal deadline to return the security deposit after handing over the keys: generally one month if the check-out inventory matches the check-in inventory, and two months if deductions are possible. This rule stems from tenancy regulations and provisions of Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989[1]. Keep all payment proofs and the signed inventory to support your case.
Common reasons for deductions and calculation
- Return deadline: ensure the date of key handover and signature of the inventory.
- Deduction for repairs justified by the inventory or invoices.
- Deduction for unpaid rent or charges if the landlord provides proof.
- Partial refund must be itemized and justified by the landlord.
If the landlord withholds part of the deposit, request a written breakdown and the corresponding invoices. Without justification, the deduction can be contested before the conciliation commission or the court.
Prepare a strong file
Gather the lease, rent receipts, inventory of fixtures in and out, and dated photos. Send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to request the refund, mentioning the legal deadline and attaching your evidence. A template and practical information about inventories are available on the official website[2].
Remedies if the refund is delayed or disputed
Contact the landlord amicably first; if unsuccessful, seize the departmental conciliation commission when possible, then, as a last resort, the Judicial Court for a payment claim. Prefer mediation and keep all proof of sending and receipt.
FAQ
- How long to get my security deposit back?
- The legal deadline is generally one month if no damage is found, and two months when deductions are possible.
- Can the landlord keep the entire deposit for repairs?
- No, only repairs justified by the inventory and supported by invoices or estimates can be deducted.
- What if I receive nothing after two months?
- Send a formal notice by registered mail, then contact the departmental conciliation commission or the Judicial Court if necessary.
How to
- Gather lease, receipts, inventories and dated photos.
- Send a formal request by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt.
- Wait the legal deadline (1 to 2 months) before taking further steps.
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission if amicable agreement fails.
- Bring the case to the Judicial Court to obtain payment if necessary.
Key takeaways
- Respect deadlines and keep proof of key handover.
- Document the property's condition with photos and signed inventories.
- Always request a written itemized statement for any deduction from the deposit.
Help and resources
- Inventory templates and advice
- Information on the security deposit
- Judicial Court practical information
