Tenant Rights in France: Inventory and Security Deposit
As a tenant in France, knowing your rights during the inventory (état des lieux) and regarding the security deposit can prevent unjust deductions and lengthy disputes. This article explains, in plain language, the steps before and after the inventory, the deadlines for returning the deposit, the evidence to gather and possible remedies with the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court. You will also find a FAQ, a step-by-step guide to claim your deposit, and official resources to go further.
Before the inventory
Prepare to avoid surprises. Note anything that appears damaged or worn and gather evidence at the time of moving in.
- Photograph and keep dated documents and photos for each room.
- Request the presence of the landlord or a representative and note the time and date of the inspection.
- Record the meter readings (water, electricity, gas) and keep copies of the indexes.
Security deposit: rights and deadlines
The security deposit must be returned within a legal timeframe that depends on the inventory at the end of the lease. If the exit inventory matches the entry inventory, the landlord has a shortened period to return the deposit. If deductions are made for repairs, the landlord must justify the amounts by estimates or invoices.[1]
- Note the deposit amount and keep the payment receipt.
- Request estimates or invoices if the landlord plans deductions.
- Respect legal time limits to contest a deduction and send a formal notice if necessary.
In case of dispute
If you do not receive a satisfactory response, start with an amicable conciliation via the departmental conciliation commission or send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt before initiating legal proceedings. The competent court for rental disputes is the judicial court.
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission to attempt mediation.
- Send a registered letter detailing your request and the attached evidence.
- As a last resort, bring the case to the judicial court with the help of legal aid if needed.
FAQ
- What if the landlord refuses to return the security deposit?
- Gather evidence and photos, send a formal notice by registered mail, then contact the departmental conciliation commission before going to court if necessary.
- Which documents should I keep after the inventory?
- Keep the entry and exit inventories, dated photos, deposit payment receipts and all written exchanges with the landlord.
- What is the deadline to contest an inventory?
- Contest promptly in writing and respect the applicable appeal deadlines; conciliation should be preferred before judicial action.
How to
- Gather all evidence (photos, documents, invoices) related to the condition of the property.
- Send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to request the return of the deposit or to contest a deduction.
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission if the response is unsatisfactory.
- If necessary, initiate legal proceedings before the judicial court with your evidence and correspondence.
Help and resources
- [1] Service-public.fr — Security deposit and restitution
- [2] Legifrance.gouv.fr — Legislative texts and code
