Water Leak: Tenant Rights in France
A water leak can cause significant damage and jeopardize the habitability of the home. In France, tenants have clear rights: the landlord must carry out repairs for defects affecting peaceful enjoyment and safety. This article explains, in plain language, what steps to take when a leak is detected, how to notify the owner or manager, which deadlines apply, and when to contact the departmental conciliation commission (CDC) or the judicial court if necessary. You will also find practical tips to document damage, keep receipts, and request coverage for repairs and possible compensation.
Your immediate steps
- Shut off the water supply if possible to limit damage.
- Notify the landlord in writing (email or registered letter) describing the leak and the date.
- Document the damage: dated photos, videos, and an inventory of affected items.
- Keep all proofs (invoices, estimates, correspondence) to support your claim.
- Contact your home insurance and, if necessary, a professional for an emergency repair.
Take dated photos and keep all exchanges with the landlord.
Responsibilities and deadlines
Generally, the landlord must carry out repairs necessary to ensure the safety and habitability of the dwelling, in accordance with the 1989 law and the Civil Code [1]. The rental agreement and the inventory of fixtures sometimes specify practical terms; keep these documents to support your request [2]. If the landlord does not act, a formal notice by registered letter sets a deadline to intervene; failing that, the CDC can be contacted before initiating proceedings in the judicial court [3].
Respond to official letters and respect deadlines to protect your rights.
FAQ
- What to do in an emergency (active leak)?
- Shut off the water if possible, notify the landlord and insurance, then document the situation with photos and witness statements.
- Who pays for repairs?
- The landlord covers repairs related to maintenance and compliance of the dwelling; the tenant pays minor routine repairs as provided by law and the lease.
- Can I have works done and ask for reimbursement?
- Yes if the landlord refuses to act after formal notice; keep estimates and invoices to claim reimbursement or deduct the cost from the security deposit after a decision.
- Should I contact the CDC before going to court?
- Contacting the departmental conciliation commission is recommended to attempt an amicable agreement before judicial proceedings, depending on the case.
How to
- Send written notice to the landlord describing the leak and attaching photos.
- Contact your home insurance to declare the claim and learn the procedure.
- For emergencies, have a professional perform a temporary repair and keep the estimate and invoice.
- If the landlord does not act, send a formal notice by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt.
- Contact the departmental conciliation commission, then the judicial court if needed.
Key takeaways
- The landlord is responsible for repairs affecting safety and habitability.
- Always document the leak and keep all evidence.
- Use formal notice and CDC before considering court action.
Help and support
- [1] Service-public.fr - Rental agreement and obligations
- [2] Legifrance - Law n°89-462 of 6 July 1989
- [3] Service-public.fr - Departmental conciliation commission
