Tenant Notice for Furnished Rentals in France
As a tenant in France, understanding your rights and obligations before giving notice is essential. The furnished lease regime differs from the unfurnished lease regarding duration and notice periods, as well as grounds and forms of termination. This article explains, step by step and in clear language, how much notice you must give, how to draft and send a termination letter, which documents to keep as proof, and which exceptions can reduce or extend the period. You will also find practical tips for negotiating with the landlord, remedies in case of dispute, and where to consult official texts to verify your situation in France.
Notice and general rules
For a furnished dwelling, the notice given by the tenant is generally one month. This rule stems from the legal framework for residential leases and the provisions applicable to furnished rentals in France.[1] The notice starts from receipt of the termination letter by the landlord or the date of hand delivery with acknowledgment of receipt.
Common exceptions
- Cases of job transfer, job loss, or obtaining a first job: the period may remain one month.
- If the dwelling is uninhabitable (no heating, severe leakage), the tenant can request measures and sometimes leave sooner.
- Tense zones: some specific mechanisms exist but do not extend the tenant's notice for a furnished lease.
How to notify the notice
The tenant can send a termination letter by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt, deliver it in person against a receipt, or send it by another agreed written proof. The minimal content must specify the desired departure date and be signed. Keeping proof of sending is crucial in case of dispute.[2]
- Write a simple letter indicating the desired departure date.
- Send it by registered mail or hand it over against a receipt.
- Keep a copy and any acknowledgment of receipt.
Inventory, deposit deductions and obligations
Before leaving, arrange a joint exit inventory with the landlord. If damages exceed normal wear and tear, the landlord can retain part of the security deposit to cover repairs. Keep all invoices and photos of condition to support your position.
- The security deposit for a furnished rental is generally equal to one month's rent.
- If a retention is made, request a detailed quotation for the repairs.
- If the landlord delays the refund, first contact them in writing to claim the balance.
FAQ
- What is the notice period for a furnished dwelling?
- The standard period is one month for a tenant of a furnished dwelling in France, unless exceptions provided by law or particular circumstances apply.[2]
- How do I send a valid notice letter?
- Send a signed letter stating the desired departure date, preferably by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt or hand delivery against a receipt.
- Can the landlord refuse the departure?
- No, the tenant has the right to terminate the lease by respecting the applicable notice; the landlord cannot prevent the departure but must comply with rules for the inventory and the deposit refund.
How-To
- Check the notice period applicable to your contract (generally one month for a furnished rental).
- Draft the termination letter specifying the desired departure date.
- Send the letter by registered mail or hand it over against a receipt and keep the proof.
- Arrange the exit inventory and hand over the keys to the landlord on the agreed date.
Key takeaways
- A furnished rental usually implies a one-month notice for the tenant.
- Always keep proof of sending and a signed inventory.
