Key points in 30 seconds
- Find your lease and move-in report
- Give notice on time
- Fix small damage and clean
Refund deadlines
1 month after returning the keys if the move-out inspection matches the move-in one, 2 months otherwise. Late refunds add 10% of the monthly rent (excluding charges) per started month.
Advice from the association
Don't leave this procedure to the last minute — come and see us.
Allowed deductions
Only justified sums: unpaid rent or charges, repairs beyond normal wear and tear. Ask for quotes or invoices.
Common mistake
Letting the landlord do the inspection alone.
The move-out inspection
Attend in person, compare with the move-in report, photograph every room and write your objections on the document. In shared buildings up to 20% may be held until the yearly charges reconciliation.
Common mistake
Not giving your new address.
If the deposit is not returned
Send a registered letter with acknowledgement (template below), then contact the free commission départementale de conciliation or the ADIL. Last resort: the local court.
Common mistake
Accepting deductions without invoices.
Step by step
- 1Find your lease and move-in report
- 2Give notice on time
- 3Fix small damage and clean
- 4Do the move-out inspection with photos
- 5Hand back keys with new address and IBAN
- 6No refund after 1–2 months: send a registered letter
- 7Contact the conciliation commission or ADIL
Documents needed
Collected: 0 / 6
FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return the deposit in France?
1 month if reports match, 2 months otherwise, from the key handover.
Can I skip the last month's rent instead?
No, the law does not allow it.
What if the landlord does not reply?
Send a registered letter, then go to the free conciliation commission.
What is the late penalty?
10% of monthly rent excluding charges per started month of delay.