Renting an apartment in Paris can seem complex, especially for expatriates or people on professional mobility. Between different types of leases, security deposits, notice periods, and rent controls, it is essential to understand your rights and obligations. This practical guide will help you navigate the Parisian market safely during your relocation.
The two types of leases to know
In France, there are mainly two types of leases for rental:
1. Regulated personal lease: Alur Law
The Alur lease, regulated by the law of July 6, 1989, applies when you rent a dwelling as your primary residence. This type of contract protects the tenant and regulates several aspects of the lease.
Consult the official text: Alur Law – government
Main provisions of the Alur lease:
- Security deposit limited to 1 month's rent (2 months for a furnished dwelling).
- Regulated notice period: 3 months for an unfurnished dwelling (reduced to 1 month under certain conditions).
- Rent control in certain areas.
- Annual rent increase regulated, indexed to the IRL (Rent Reference Index).
- Abusive clauses prohibited, protection against evictions without procedure.
- Agency fees regulated: maximum €12/m² for drafting the lease, €3/m² for the inventory of fixtures.
2. Unregulated lease: Civil Code
The Civil Code lease is not subject to the same rules and applies in three main cases:
- Company lease: the company signs for a dwelling intended for an employee.
- Secondary residence: the dwelling is not your primary residence.
- Service housing: for certain specific professions.
In these leases, rent, duration, and notice conditions are free, which means it is essential to read the contract carefully.
Why the Civil Code lease is developing
There is an increase in the number of apartments rented only with a Civil Code lease, especially in large cities like Paris. The reasons:
- To bypass the rent control in force for primary residences.
- To escape certain obligations related to housing energy regulations (energy performance diagnosis).
Key points to check before signing your lease
Whether you opt for an Alur or Civil Code lease, here are some essential points to check:
- Lease duration and renewal conditions.
- Amount of the security deposit and refund procedures.
- Specific clauses on rent increase or charges.
- Inventory of fixtures and provided equipment.
- Notice procedures and termination conditions.
Sofime Immigration & Relocation advice for your relocation
- Always read your contract carefully: Civil Code leases can contain very specific clauses.
- Check guarantees and insurance: security deposit, mandatory home insurance, and any guarantor.
- Prepare your documents: for an Alur lease, files must be complete (identity documents, proof of income, previous residence certificate).
