Tenant Recourse for Rent Reduction in France

If works in your home in France reduce comfort or usable space, you can request a rent reduction. This guide explains in plain language a tenant's rights, the steps to take with the landlord, how to gather necessary evidence (photos, letters, inventory of fixtures) and when to contact the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court. You will also find practical action templates, deadlines to respect and tips to avoid common mistakes. The aim is to help you obtain a rent reduction proportional to the inconvenience caused by works, while following the rules of French tenancy law.

What does the law say?

Law n°89-462 of July 6, 1989 governs residential leases and provides protections for the tenant regarding peaceful enjoyment and the landlord's obligations^[1]. If works affect the use of the dwelling, the tenant can request a rent reduction proportional to the damage suffered, and seize the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court if necessary^[2].

Before acting: document and inform

Before any formal step, gather evidence and inform the landlord in writing. Clear documentation makes negotiation and proof easier in case of proceedings.

• Take dated photos and videos of the affected areas.
• Keep the inventory of fixtures, letters and lease documents.
• Note the dates, frequency and duration of the nuisances.
• Inform the landlord in writing and request an amicable solution.

Amicable steps

First try an amicable solution: describe the disturbance, propose an amount or percentage of rent reduction and give a deadline for response. If negotiation fails, the departmental conciliation commission can be seized free of charge to attempt an agreement^[2].

1. Send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt describing the facts and the requested reduction.
2. Refer the case to the departmental conciliation commission if no agreement is found.
3. Keep proof of the referral and any follow-up.

Go to the judicial court

If conciliation fails, the judicial court is competent to decide the dispute. Present a complete file: evidence, inventories, letters, expert reports and estimates. The judge can order a rent reduction proportional to the prejudice and, depending on the case, partial retroactive reimbursement.

• Prepare a complete file (photos, witness statements, inventories, expert estimates).
• Ask the judge for a proportional rent reduction and, if applicable, damages.
• Attach all proof of amicable attempts and communications with the landlord.

FAQ

Is the reduction automatic if works are disruptive?

No. You must prove the loss of comfort or use and request a reduction from the landlord or the judge.

Can I withhold rent?

No, withholding rent is risky; prioritize negotiation or a court decision.

What are the deadlines to act?

Act quickly: preserve evidence and seize the departmental conciliation commission or the court without delay.

How to

1. Document the nuisances (photos, videos, inventories).
2. Inform the landlord by registered letter and keep the acknowledgment of receipt.
3. Refer the case to the departmental conciliation commission if negotiation fails.
4. Seize the judicial court as a last resort with a complete file.

Key points

• Document everything from the start to build a solid case.
• Favor conciliation before judicial action.
• Respect deadlines to contest and contact the competent authorities.

Help and resources

• Service-public.fr - Letter templates and practical information
• Legifrance - Official text of law n°89-462

1. [1] Legifrance - Law n°89-462 of July 6, 1989
2. [2] Service-public.fr - Departmental conciliation commission and templates