Tenant Remedies: Collective Heating in France
If you are a tenant in France and the allocation of collective heating seems incorrect or unfair, this guide explains the possible remedies. You will learn which proofs to gather (statements, bills, photos), which deadlines to respect, and when to refer the departmental conciliation commission[3] or the judicial court. I also describe the steps to request an adjustment of charges, contest a bill or obtain a technical expert assessment. The tone remains practical and accessible: I specify the landlord's obligations, the tenant's rights under the law[1] and concrete steps to act without being a lawyer. Always keep written exchanges and rent receipts.
What remedies for a tenant?
In practice, a tenant has a range of options: contact the landlord, request an adjustment of charges, propose mediation via the departmental conciliation commission, or bring the matter before the judicial court. Before any action, simply document the problem and send a written request by registered mail or simple letter with acknowledgment of receipt if possible.
Keep all written exchanges and evidence.
Steps to follow
- Contact the landlord in writing and request correction (contact).
- Request adjustment of charges and provide your documents (rent).
- Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission if the disagreement persists (file).
- Bring the case before the judicial court as a last resort (court).
Respond to official letters within deadlines to avoid losing your rights.
Evidence and expert assessment
Gather bills, heating statements, check-in reports[2] and time-stamped photos. If the calculation appears incorrect, request a technical expert assessment or a meter check by an accredited professional.
- Keep bills, heating statements and photos (evidence).
- Request a technical expert assessment if the calculation seems wrong (repair).
Careful documentation of measurements and consumption strengthens your case.
FAQ
- What should I do if the allocation seems wrong?
- Contact the landlord, gather the evidence and refer the matter to the conciliation commission before going to court.
- How much time do I have to act?
- Respect limitation periods and the deadlines indicated in letters; act as soon as the problem is discovered.
- Can the landlord refuse an expert assessment?
- The landlord can refuse, but the judge can order an expert assessment if the dispute is serious.
How to
- Gather all evidence: bills, photos, consumption statements (evidence).
- Send a written request to the landlord with a response deadline (contact).
- Refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission if needed (file).
- Bring the case before the judicial court if conciliation fails (court).
Key takeaways
- Keep all documents related to consumption and charges.
- Act quickly when an allocation error appears.
Help and support / Resources
- Rental contract and mandatory mentions - Service-public
- Check-in and check-out inventory - Service-public
- Law n° 89-462 of July 6, 1989 - Legifrance
