Tenant Access for Landlord Repairs in France
As a tenant in France, you may be asked to allow the landlord or contractors to enter for repairs. This guide explains your rights and obligations, the deadlines to respect, what the landlord must justify, and how to document each visit to avoid disputes. We cover differences between urgent and scheduled works, the need for reasonable notice, the role of the departmental conciliation commission and remedies before the judicial court if agreement cannot be reached. The goal is to give you practical steps and official references to protect your privacy and ensure proper completion of repairs.
General principles
The landlord must respect the lease and the law: they can request access for repairs or maintenance but must organize interventions without compromising the peaceful enjoyment of the dwelling. In case of emergency (fire, major leak, safety risk), access may be immediate, otherwise reasonable notice and an appointment should be proposed.[1]
What the landlord must justify
- An appointment or notice for scheduled works, with proposed date and time.
- The precise nature of the works: maintenance, restoration or improvement.
- Documents or estimates when works are significant or carried out by third parties.
Access and privacy
The landlord cannot demand permanent access or search the home; visits must be occasional and limited to the purpose of the works. If keys are given to the landlord or a contractor, keep receipts and note the duration of occupancy.
- For scheduled entry, note the identity of workers and the duration of the intervention.
- Take dated photos before and after the works to keep evidence.
What to do if you refuse access?
If you refuse access for legitimate reasons (absence, risk, unjustified service), propose alternative dates. If a conflict persists, document your refusals and request the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court according to the situation. An abusive refusal by the tenant may engage responsibility if the work was necessary for safety or habitability.[2]
FAQ
- Can the landlord enter without my consent for non-urgent works?
- No, for non-urgent works the landlord must seek your agreement and set a reasonable appointment.
- What to do if the landlord damages my belongings during works?
- Report the damage in writing, attach photos, and request repair or compensation; if necessary take the matter to the judicial court.
- Can I require a witness to be present during the intervention?
- Yes, you can ask for a witness or representative and carry out a condition report if you fear damage.
How-To
- Receive the landlord's request and ask for an assignment order or estimate if necessary.
- Propose or accept a reasonable time slot for the intervention.
- Document the condition of the dwelling before and after with photos and emails.
- In case of dispute, contact the departmental conciliation commission or the competent legal service.
Key takeaways
- The landlord must justify the nature of works and respect your peaceful enjoyment.
- Reasonable notice and an appointment are required for non-urgent works.
- Keep all evidence: photos, messages, estimates and condition reports.
Help and support
- [1] Service-public.fr - Works and repairs in the dwelling
- [2] Legifrance - Law No. 89-462 of 6 July 1989
- [3] Service-public.fr - Departmental conciliation commission
