Estate agency fees must be shared equally (50/50) between landlord and tenant for all new contracts from August 1, 2024. Between private individuals, there is no letting commission, generally 1 month's rent.

There is no legal obligation to take out insurance. However, it is strongly recommended that you take out rental risk insurance (RC locative), as the tenant is liable for any claims throughout the term of the lease.

The tenant pays for energy consumption (electricity, heating, water), routine maintenance, minor repairs and taxes related to the use of the property. The lessor covers major repairs and administrative costs.

No, the landlord cannot cut off the electricity, heating or water, as this would deprive the tenant of the peaceful enjoyment of the dwelling.

Indexation clauses are legal as long as the tenant does not object by registered letter. If contested, the clause becomes null and void for the future.

No, rent increases are not permitted for this reason. However, the lessor may increase the rent every two years by a maximum of 10%, up to a limit of 5% of the capital invested.

If the lease contract explicitly forbids animals, this clause is legal. If the contract is silent, animals are allowed as long as they do not cause nuisance or damage.

An inventory of fixtures is mandatory before moving in if a rental guarantee is required. It is advisable to carry out an entry and exit inventory to avoid disputes.

From August 1, 2024, all lease contracts must be in writing. Contracts concluded before this date, whether verbal or written, remain valid.

If the inventory of fixtures on departure matches that on arrival, half the security deposit must be returned within one month of the keys being handed over.

The remainder of the guarantee (after deduction of sums due to the lessor as charges or otherwise) must be returned within one month of either of the following conditions:

• final approval of annual charges by the general meeting of co-owners ;
• Receipt of statements of rental charges, which the lessor must obtain from the various departments and authorities no later than 1 month after the end of the lease (in the case of a single-family home, i.e. a dwelling not subject to condominium status).

- For the tenant: The tenant may terminate a fixed-term lease 3 months before the end of the term, for no particular reason. In the case of an open-ended lease, the tenant may terminate the lease at any time, subject to 3 months' notice.

- For the lessor :  3 months for personal needs or 6 months for other serious reasons.

Yes, if a "diplomatic" clause is included in the lease, allowing early termination in the event of a professional transfer abroad.

It must include the identity, address of the property, termination date and reason. The letter must be sent by registered mail.

The lease continues with the new owner. If the new owner wishes to occupy the property, he or she may terminate the contract within 3 months of acquisition.

The landlord has the right to visit the property for repairs or for sale, provided he informs the tenant in advance. Refusal to visit may result in damages.

The law is silent on the subject. Normal wear and tear of paint and wallpaper is not the responsibility of the tenant.

Tenants may appeal to the rent commission in the event of a dispute over the amount of rent or service charges. Before doing so, they must inform the landlord in writing and try to reach an amicable settlement.

If no agreement is reached after one month, the tenant can file a petition with the municipality where the property is located. The rent commission will try to resolve the dispute.