Tenant Recourse in France: CDC Documents
If you are a tenant in France and need to refer your case to the departmental commission for conciliation (CDC), it is essential to know which documents to provide and how to prepare a solid file. This guide simply explains the evidence to collect (lease, inventory reports, photos, written exchanges, receipts), the deadlines to respect, and the options if the CDC does not reach a solution: mediation or referral to the tribunal judiciaire. We detail step by step the typical documents, useful forms and best practices to defend your tenant rights in plain language so you can act quickly and effectively.
What to provide for a CDC file?
To maximize your chances in conciliation, gather documents that prove your situation and the requests you make.
- Copy of the lease and any amendments.
- Inventory reports at move-in and move-out.
- Photos and videos of defects (dated when possible).
- Letters, written exchanges and formal notices.
- Rent receipts and proof of payment.
- Estimates or invoices for repairs carried out or requested.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
Deadlines and procedure
Referring the case to the CDC must respect certain deadlines and procedures depending on your situation[1].
- Referral to the CDC: how to submit and which documents to attach.
- Notice and response deadlines: comply with the dates provided.
- If conciliation fails, you can bring the case before the tribunal judiciaire.
Responding to summons and respecting deadlines is crucial to preserve your rights.
FAQ
- What is the departmental commission for conciliation (CDC)?
- The CDC is a free body that helps resolve rental disputes amicably.[2]
- Which documents should I attach to my referral?
- Attach the lease, inventory reports, photos, receipts and written exchanges to support your claim.
- What if the CDC does not reach an agreement?
- If conciliation fails, you can take the case to the tribunal judiciaire to obtain an enforceable decision.[3]
How to
- Gather all documents (lease, inventory reports, photos, receipts).
- Write a referral letter specifying your requests and attach the documents.
- Send the referral and attend scheduled conciliation meetings.
- If conciliation fails, bring the case to the tribunal judiciaire with your complete file.
Key takeaways
- Keep dated and organized evidence.
- Strictly respect referral and response deadlines.
- The CDC aims for an amicable solution before court.
Help and resources
- Service-public: information and templates
- Legifrance: legal texts
- Justice.fr: procedure before the tribunal judiciaire
