Tenant Rights in France — Energy Upgrades

As a tenant in France, you may be affected by energy upgrade works aimed at reducing consumption or bringing a dwelling up to standard. This guide explains, in clear language, what your rights are, when the landlord can intervene, what authorizations are required and what steps you can take if you refuse access or suffer nuisances. You will find practical advice on keeping evidence, communicating effectively with the landlord and, if necessary, contacting the competent authorities. The goal is to give you concrete and safe actions to protect your comfort and your rights during these works.

What does the law say?

The 1989 law on residential leases and the Construction and Housing Code govern the landlord's obligations regarding repairs and maintenance. The landlord must ensure the decency and safety of the dwelling; energy efficiency works may be imposed in certain cases, but they must respect the lease contract and the tenant's rights ^[2].

Works with or without your consent

Depending on the scope and nature of the works, the landlord must obtain your consent for interventions that modify the use or enjoyment of the dwelling. Routine or urgent maintenance work can be carried out without your consent if access is reasonable and notified. However, major works (for example replacing a boiler, interior insulation) may require your written consent if they cause significant inconvenience or a change of use.

Your practical rights

• Receive a written notice specifying the nature, duration and scheduled hours of the works.
• Request protection measures against nuisances (dust, noise, safety).
• Ask for compensation or a rent reduction if the works make the dwelling partially uninhabitable.
• Refuse any permanent change of use without a written amendment to the lease.

Recommended steps

1. Carefully read the landlord's letter or email of notification and keep a copy.
2. Take photos and videos before, during and after the works.
3. Ask the landlord in writing for a detailed schedule and nuisance-reduction measures.
4. If dialogue fails, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court as appropriate.

FAQ

Can the landlord force a tenant to allow access to the dwelling for works?

The landlord can request access for works necessary to preserve the dwelling, but must respect notifications and minimize nuisance; for works changing the use, your consent may be required.

Am I entitled to a rent reduction if the works make the dwelling partially unusable?

Yes, you may request a reduction or compensation proportional to the loss of enjoyment of the dwelling if the works render part of it unfit for use.

What should I do if the works are dangerous or not declared?

Immediately contact the competent services and keep evidence; you can contact the departmental conciliation commission and then the judicial court if necessary ^[1].

How to

1. Check the landlord's notification and keep a copy.
2. Take photos/videos before, during and after the works.
3. Request in writing the protection measures and a detailed schedule.
4. Contact the departmental conciliation commission or a lawyer if the dispute persists.

Help and Support

• [1] Service-public.fr — Tenant information and works
• [2] Legifrance.gouv.fr — Official texts on residential leases

1. [1] Service-public.fr — Tenant information and works
2. [2] Legifrance.gouv.fr — Official texts on residential leases