Tenant rights for water leak repairs in France
What to do immediately after a water leak?
Act quickly to limit damage: turn off the water if necessary, protect your belongings and take dated photos and videos. Keep all supporting documents (photos, messages, emergency purchase receipts). Then send a written notification to the landlord (registered letter or email with proof of receipt) specifying the description of the incident, the date and the observed damage.[2]
Allocation of costs and responsibilities
The law distinguishes tenant repairs (routine maintenance) borne by the tenant and major repairs or work related to structure and installations borne by the landlord. For a leak, determine the origin: private pipe, wear of a collective installation or tenant fault. If the leak comes from an element the owner must maintain, they cover repairs; otherwise, the tenant may be held responsible.
How to estimate repair costs?
Request at least two detailed quotes specifying the nature of the work (pipe replacement, welding, sealing, drying, repainting, etc.). Compare items: labor, parts, travel, VAT. Keep quotes and invoices; they serve as evidence in case of dispute. If you advanced urgent costs to limit damage, keep receipts to request reimbursement.
Procedure if the landlord refuses to act
Remind the landlord of their maintenance obligation by sending a formal notice if necessary. If inaction continues, you can refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission (CDC) before bringing it to the judicial court. The CDC offers free amicable mediation; keep copies of all steps and deadlines met.
FAQ
- Who must pay if the leak comes from a collective pipe?
- If the leak comes from a collective installation or an element the landlord must maintain, the costs are usually the landlord's responsibility.
- Can I have repairs done urgently and be reimbursed?
- Yes, in an emergency the tenant can call a professional to limit damage and request reimbursement upon presentation of invoices, unless the fault is attributable to them.
- Should I contact my home insurer?
- Inform your insurer even if the damage is the landlord's responsibility; insurance may cover some damage and later recover costs from the liable party.
How to
- Turn off the water supply and secure the dwelling to limit damage.
- Take dated photos and videos and note the time and circumstances.
- Immediately inform the landlord in writing and attach the evidence.
- Request multiple quotes and keep all invoices if you advance costs.
- If the landlord refuses to act, contact the departmental conciliation commission, then the judicial court if necessary.
Key takeaways
- Act quickly, document everything and keep proofs.
- Keep quotes and invoices to support any reimbursement claim.
- Use the departmental conciliation commission before court action.
