Wall Holes: Tenant Rights in France
As a tenant in France, knowing how to handle holes in the walls before the end of the lease can prevent an unjust deduction from the security deposit. This guide clearly explains your obligations and the landlord's, how to document damage, which repairs are your responsibility, and the steps to take if you dispute a deduction. It mentions rules applicable to move-out inspections, the role of evidence (photos, invoices) and possible recourses with the departmental conciliation commission or the judicial court. The goal is to give you concrete steps and simple vocabulary to act calmly when returning the keys in France.
Your obligations and the landlord's
Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989 governs residential leases and distinguishes the roles of tenant and landlord: the tenant must maintain the dwelling and carry out routine repairs, while the landlord is responsible for major works and preservation of the property[1]. In practice, a small nail hole is often considered normal wear if you fill and clean it before moving out.
Before the move-out inspection
Before the move-out inspection, organize evidence and minor repairs:
- Take dated photos and keep the evidence (photo).
- Fill and smooth small holes (repair).
- Clean and leave the property tidy before returning the keys (move-out).
When the landlord can deduct from the deposit
The landlord can deduct from the security deposit the cost of repairs necessary to restore the property to its previous condition for damage exceeding normal wear. The move-out inspection is the main reference to establish initial and final condition[2].
How to contest a deduction
If you consider a deduction abusive, first ask the landlord for a detailed explanation with supporting documents. If the dispute continues, you can contact the departmental conciliation commission and then the judicial court.
FAQ
- Does the tenant always have to fill nail holes made by picture hangings?
- Generally yes for small holes; proper filling and cleaning often prevent a deduction.
- Can I do the repairs myself and present invoices?
- Yes, keep invoices and evidence: if the work is proper, the landlord may accept and not deduct from the deposit.
- What should a move-out inspection include to protect me?
- A detailed inspection, dated and signed by both parties and accompanied by photos if necessary.
How-To
- Review the lease and note clauses about the inspection and repairs.
- Photograph damage with date and time and save the images.
- Perform minor repairs or obtain a quote and keep invoices.
- Allow time for the move-out inspection and be present for the final visit.
- If necessary, contact the conciliation commission and then the judicial court (court).
Key takeaways
- Always document the property condition with dated photos.
- Fix small holes to reduce the risk of deposit deductions.
- Keep quotes and invoices to prove interventions.
