Who Pays Notice for Furnished Rental in France

As a tenant of a furnished rental in France, understanding who bears the cost of the notice period is essential to prepare your departure. The notice period is the notification period the tenant must respect before leaving the property, and rules can vary depending on the type of lease and location. This article clearly explains your obligations, cases where the notice can be reduced or covered, what the law states and how to act if the landlord disputes. You will also find practical steps to send your termination letter, protect your security deposit and contact official services if needed.

General rules

Generally, the tenant of a furnished rental must respect a one-month notice before leaving the property. Law No. 89-462 governs residential leases in France and specifies the rights and obligations of the parties.^[1] The specific conditions (notice duration, reasons for reduction or exemption) are detailed by the Construction and Housing Code and official practical sheets.^[2]

Notice duration and exceptions

• Standard notice: 1 month for a furnished rental.
• Notice may be 3 months for certain landlords or situations unless local provisions or mutual agreement apply.
• Reduction or exemption: serious reasons (job loss, relocation, health reasons) can shorten the notice period.

Who pays the notice?

In principle, the tenant covers the notice period: this means they must continue to pay rent until the end of the notice period, unless the lease specifies otherwise. If the landlord finds a new tenant before the end of the notice, the outgoing tenant may be released from obligations from the arrival of the new tenant, depending on agreements between parties.

• If you find a replacement tenant and the landlord accepts, you may be exempt from paying the remaining rent.
• By written agreement between landlord and tenant, notice payment can be shared or waived.

What to do if the landlord disputes payment?

If the landlord refuses a reduction or claims sums after your departure, start by sending a formal letter, then gather evidence (statements, emails, the inventory). Before going to court, contact the Departmental Conciliation Commission or try mediation to reach an amicable agreement.^[3]

FAQ

Does the tenant always pay the notice for a furnished rental?

Yes, unless the contract, the law or an agreement with the landlord provides an exemption or cost sharing.

Can I reduce my notice for a professional relocation?

Yes, certain situations such as relocation or job loss allow a reduced notice period, with supporting documents.

What if the security deposit is not returned?

Request a joint exit inventory, send a formal notice, then seize the commission or the court if necessary.

How to

1. Write your termination letter or email stating the desired departure date and attach supporting documents if requesting a reduced notice.
2. Carry out a joint exit inventory and keep a signed copy.
3. Return the keys and request the refund of the security deposit within legal time limits.
4. If a dispute remains, contact the Departmental Conciliation Commission or prepare to refer the matter to the judicial court.

Key takeaways

• The tenant of a furnished rental generally pays the notice and continues paying rent during the period.
• Exceptions exist for relocation, job loss or written agreement with the landlord.
• Keep written proof and perform an exit inventory to protect your rights.

Help and resources

• Consult the "Notice and termination" page on Service-public.fr
• Read Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989 on Legifrance
• Departmental Conciliation Commission - Service-public.fr

1. [1] Legifrance — Law No. 89-462 of July 6, 1989
2. [2] Service-public.fr — Notice and termination
3. [3] Service-public.fr — Departmental Conciliation Commission