Water Leak: Tenant Remedies in France

A water leak in a dwelling can be stressful for a tenant. In France, the tenant must inform the landlord promptly so that necessary repairs are carried out within a reasonable time. According to the law, some repairs are the landlord's responsibility while others fall to the tenant; it is important to document the damage and send written notices if needed. This guide explains, in clear language, the immediate actions to take, the evidence to collect, how to follow up on repairs and which remedies exist (Departmental Conciliation Commission or judicial court) if the landlord does not act. Keep all exchanges and invoices to protect your rights.

What to do in case of a water leak?

Upon discovering a leak, notify the landlord without delay and request intervention. The landlord's and tenant's obligations are defined by the 1989 law and its implementing texts ^[1], and practical rules on works and repairs are described by public services ^[2]. If the problem affects safety or habitability, act quickly and keep evidence.

• Notify the landlord within 48 hours (within 48 hours).
• Limit damage with temporary measures if possible (water).
• Contact your home insurance and note the claim number (call).
• Send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to the landlord and attach photos (notice).
• Keep all exchanges, estimates, invoices and dated photos (document).

Responsibilities and repairs

Generally, repairs related to habitability, safety or the structural condition of the dwelling are the landlord's responsibility; minor tenant repairs remain the tenant's responsibility. To know who pays for a specific intervention, consult official rules and prepare evidence (photos, letters, estimates) to support your request ^[1][2].

FAQ

Who must pay for repairing a leak?

The landlord covers repairs related to habitability or structure; the tenant handles minor tenant repairs. Keep evidence and invoices.

What if the landlord does not respond?

Remind them in writing, send a registered letter, then refer the matter to the Departmental Conciliation Commission or the judicial court if necessary ^[3].

Should I call an emergency plumber?

In case of serious risk (flooding, electricity), take emergency measures and inform the landlord and your insurance immediately.

How-To

1. Turn off the water supply if possible and secure the premises (water).
2. Notify the landlord within 48 hours and specify the urgency (within 48 hours).
3. Contact your home insurance to learn the procedure (call).
4. Send a registered letter with photos and a repair request (notice).
5. Keep estimates and invoices; if the landlord refuses to act, contact the CDC or the judicial court (document).

Help and Support / Resources

• Service-public.fr — Practical housing information
• Legifrance.gouv.fr — Legislative and regulatory texts
• Justice.fr — Information on the judicial court

1. [1] Legifrance — Loi n° 89-462 du 6 juillet 1989
2. [2] Service-public.fr — Housing: works and repairs
3. [3] Service-public.fr — Departmental Conciliation Commission