Tenant: who pays moving and early termination in France
Moving home or ending a lease early often raises practical and financial questions for a tenant in France. Who pays for the move, what amounts can be claimed and what steps must be followed for early termination? This guide explains the main rules simply: notice periods, permitted reasons, responsibilities for repair costs, and cases where the landlord may seek compensation. It also shows useful documents and deadlines to avoid disputes. The goal is to help you protect your renter rights by understanding when you must pay and how to limit costs.
What does payment cover when moving or terminating?
Generally, the tenant bears their own moving costs. The rules for residential leases in France set out landlord and tenant obligations concerning maintenance and return of the property[1]. The landlord does not pay for the move unless there is a written agreement to that effect.
Responding to official notices within deadlines preserves your rights.
- Moving costs: transport, packing and vehicle rental are the tenant’s responsibility, unless there is an agreement with the landlord or a contrary clause.
- Security deposit: the landlord may retain amounts for justified repairs after the move-out inventory.
- Notice period: the tenant must respect the applicable notice period (often 1 to 3 months depending on the zone and reason) or qualify for statutory exemptions.
- Repairs and maintenance: the tenant is responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
How to limit tenant costs
To reduce costs, prepare a detailed check-in inventory, keep all receipts and proof of payments, and notify the landlord early to arrange viewings or re-letting. The model lease and practical guidance are available on Service-public.fr[2].
Clear documentation makes amicable repairs easier and lowers the chance of disputes.
- Make a full inventory of fixtures at move-in and move-out, with dated photos.
- Send notice of termination by registered letter or through a contract-approved method, respecting statutory deadlines.
- Offer to find a replacement tenant (only valid if the landlord accepts) to reduce vacancy time.
Special cases to know
Certain situations allow a reduced notice period (job loss, transfer, obtaining a first job, RSA beneficiaries, etc.). When the landlord gives notice or fails in obligations, rules differ. For inventories and evidentiary value, consult official guidance on inventories[3].
FAQ
- Does the tenant pay the moving costs if the landlord ends the lease?
- No, the landlord does not pay the move unless there is a written clause or agreement providing for such coverage.
- Can I recover the full security deposit?
- You can recover the deposit except for justified deductions for repairs or unpaid rent, after comparing the move-in and move-out inventories.
- What can I do if the landlord claims disputed sums?
- Keep all evidence, attempt conciliation, then, if necessary, contact the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court.
- How do I prove the condition of the property at departure?
- A dated, signed inventory and dated photos are the best evidence.
How to
- Prepare and keep a move-in inventory with photos.
- Notify the termination or notice in accordance with the contract and law.
- Organize the move and keep all invoices as proof.
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission in case of dispute before going to court.
Key takeaways
- The tenant generally pays for their move.
- Respect notice periods to avoid extra costs.
- A precise inventory reduces the risk of unfair deposit deductions.
Help and support
- Service-public.fr - Renting: rights and procedures
- Service-public.fr - Notice and termination of lease
- Legifrance - Official texts
