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Are you planning to move to France as a tenant? The process can be exciting but also complex, especially with the specifics of the French rental market. This optimized checklist will guide you through every step to ensure a smooth and efficient move.
The Ultimate Checklist for Tenants in France
Are you planning to move to France as a tenant? The process can be exciting but also complex, especially with the specifics of the French rental market. This optimized checklist will guide you through every step to ensure a smooth and efficient move.
1. Before you start your search, it’s important to know the rental system in France.
There are two main types of housing: unfurnished ("vide") and furnished ("meublé").
Unfurnished apartments typically come with longer leases, with a minimum duration of three years, and offer tenants better protections.
Furnished apartments offer one-year leases, more suited to short stays, but offer tenants fewer rights and less flexibility.
Understanding these differences will help you make an informed choice based on your needs.
2. Set your budget:
Begin by determining your budget. In France, rent is just one part of your monthly costs. Plan for utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet), potential service charges, and mandatory renter's insurance.
Important: Since 2023, most renters are exempt from the housing tax. Check to see if this applies to you.
3. Begin your property search:
Explore the wide selection of over 30,000 rental properties on toitpourtoi to find your ideal home. You can refine your search by location, property type, number of bedrooms, and budget. Toitpourtoi scans listings from over 3,500 websites, saving you valuable time in your search for a new home. Our notification service automatically sends you all new listings that match your criteria, giving you a crucial edge over other apartment hunters.
4. Schedule viewings:
Once you’ve selected properties, arrange viewings with landlords or agents. During the visit, thoroughly inspect the property and inquire about building condition, safety, and additional costs such as maintenance or communal charges. With a premium account on toitpourtoi, you can directly message the agent to arrange a viewing.
5. Prepare your application file:
Found the one? Start by contacting the landlord, filling out an application form, and submitting the necessary documents. In France, it’s common for landlords to request a complete file including:
Most landlords require tenants to earn at least three times the rent. If not, you may need a guarantor.
6. Sign the rental agreement:
Carefully review the lease, which details rent, lease term (three years for unfurnished, one year for furnished), and conditions for renewal or termination. Ensure it specifies all costs and responsibilities, including repairs.
7. Make initial payments:
Pay the security deposit, typically equivalent to one month’s rent for unfurnished properties and up to two months for furnished ones. This deposit will be refunded at the end of the lease. You’ll also need to pay the first month’s rent. Always request a receipt for these transactions.
8. Set your move-in date:
Coordinate a move-in date with the landlord or agent. Weekdays often offer more affordable moving service options.
9. Inform service providers:
Contact your utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet) to inform them of your move. You’ll need to close or transfer accounts from your previous residence and set them up at your new address. Don’t forget renter’s insurance, which is legally required in France.
10. Book a moving company:
Arrange a moving company in advance and check if it provides insurance coverage. If you’re managing the move yourself, consider renting a van or asking friends for help. Be sure to thank them with a meal or small gift!
11. Start packing:
Begin packing non-essential items early. Clearly label your boxes for easy unpacking. Use sturdy boxes and bubble wrap for fragile items to prevent damage.
12. Update your address:
Make sure to update your address with:
13. Complete the move-in inspection:
Before moving in, conduct an inspection with the landlord. This is a legal requirement that documents the property’s condition at the start of your lease. Be thorough and take photos of any damages to avoid disputes upon move-out.
14. Record utility meter readings:
Note the readings for electricity, water, and gas meters on your move-in day to avoid being billed for the previous tenant's usage.
15. Clean the property:
Before unpacking, clean your new home. Starting fresh in an organized space makes settling in more enjoyable and efficient.
16. Register with local services:
Once settled, register with local services like a primary care doctor, and complete the activation of any remaining utilities, such as gas or electricity if they haven’t yet been set up. Also, confirm your insurance coverage is up to date.
17. Explore your neighborhood:
Take time to discover your new surroundings. Locate nearby stores, transport options, parks, and any essential services you’ll use regularly. Familiarizing yourself with the area will help you feel more at home.
18. Relax and enjoy:
Once everything’s unpacked and set up, take a moment to relax and appreciate your new home. Congratulations on a successful move — it’s now time to create new memories in your space!
Following this checklist will prepare you well for a stress-free move in the French rental market. Best of luck with your relocation, and enjoy your new home!