How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in France, France?
In France, France, the security deposit rule is: 1 month's net rent (unfurnished) or 2 months' net rent (furnished). Governed by Loi n° 89-462 du 6 juillet 1989; Loi ELAN 2018.
Lease Review / France, France
France, France Tenant Rights & Lease Laws
Key tenant protections under France, France law — security deposit limits, landlord entry rules, and your rights when something goes wrong.
Security deposit limit
1 month's net rent (unfurnished) or 2 months' net rent (furnished)
Deposit must be returned within
Within 1 month if no damages; within 2 months with itemized deductions
Landlord entry notice required
No strict statutory minimum; reasonable advance notice is expected
Key tenant protections in France, France
- Trêve hivernale (winter truce): evictions prohibited from 1 November to 31 March
- Rent increases on renewal indexed to IRL (Indice de Référence des Loyers) only
- Tenant must give 3 months' notice to leave unfurnished tenancy (1 month in tight-market zones)
- Tenant has right of first refusal if landlord sells the property
- Encadrement des loyers (rent control) applies in Paris, Lyon, and other designated zones
Governing statute
Loi n° 89-462 du 6 juillet 1989; Loi ELAN 2018
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How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in France, France?
France, France landlords must return the security deposit within Within 1 month if no damages; within 2 months with itemized deductions. If deductions are made, the landlord must typically provide an itemized written statement.
How much notice does a landlord need to enter a rental in France, France?
In France, France, landlords are required to give No strict statutory minimum; reasonable advance notice is expected before entering the rental unit, except in emergencies.
What can I do if my France, France landlord won't return my deposit?
If your landlord in France, France wrongfully withholds your security deposit, you can file a claim through the Commission départementale de conciliation (CDC) or tribunal judiciaire. Local law may allow you to recover damages beyond the deposit amount. Document everything and send written demand letters before filing a claim.