Q: What fees should I expect when renting an apartment in Paris?

Monthly rent: this is the main cost, payable each month. It may or may not include certain charges (e.g., water, collective heating). Check if the rent is "charges included" or "excluding charges." Service charges: typically cover building maintenance costs (elevator, cleaning, collective heating, etc.) and are often paid in addition to rent. Charges are generally adjusted annually (for leases over one year). Security Deposit: for furnished rentals, it's equivalent to two months' rent (excluding or including charges), while for unfurnished rentals, it's equivalent to one month's rent (excluding charges). The deposit is returned at the end of the lease, subject to the condition of the property. Agency fees: if you use an agency, administrative and lease preparation fees apply. For residential leases (Alur Law), fees are legally capped and vary by property size and location (e.g., in Paris, fees are capped at €12/m² for viewings, dossier processing, and lease preparation). Home insurance: required by law, it protects you against water damage, fire, etc. Costs vary based on the apartment size and coverage chosen. Inspection fees: If a professional conducts the move-in/out inspection, costs are shared between tenant and landlord and are capped at €3/m².

Q: What is the lease duration and termination policy?

Paris-Housing offers two types of rental agreement: Primary residence rental: suitable for individuals renting as their primary residence. Unfurnished rental duration: 3 years renewable (6 years if the landlord is a company). Furnished rental duration: 1 year renewable. Notice period (lease termination): 1 month. Corporate or secondary residence rental: A flexible lease for corporate housing or secondary residences. Lease duration: minimum 3 months for furnished, generally 12 months for unfurnished. Flexible notice period: 2-3 months (can be reduced to 1 month for job relocations).

Question 1

What is the rent amount and what does it include?

Accepted Answer

The rent amount, including charges, is specified in each rental listing. Charges may cover water, maintenance of common areas, security, heating, and hot water (unless individually metered), as well as other services. Specific details are provided for each property.

Don't hesitate to ask your dedicated advisor for more information.

Question 2

What fees should I expect when renting an apartment in Paris?

Accepted Answer

Monthly rent:this is the main cost, payable each month. It may or may not include certain charges (e.g., water, collective heating). Check if the rent is "charges included" or "excluding charges."
Service charges:typically cover building maintenance costs (elevator, cleaning, collective heating, etc.) and are often paid in addition to rent. Charges are generally adjusted annually (for leases over one year).
Security Deposit:for furnished rentals, it's equivalent to two months' rent (excluding or including charges), while for unfurnished rentals, it's equivalent to one month's rent (excluding charges). The deposit is returned at the end of the lease, subject to the condition of the property.
Agency fees:if you use an agency, administrative and lease preparation fees apply. For residential leases (Alur Law), fees are legally capped and vary by property size and location (e.g., in Paris, fees are capped at €12/m² for viewings, dossier processing, and lease preparation).
Home insurance:required by law, it protects you against water damage, fire, etc. Costs vary based on the apartment size and coverage chosen.
Inspection fees:If a professional conducts the move-in/out inspection, costs are shared between tenant and landlord and are capped at €3/m².

Question 3

What is the lease duration and termination policy?

Accepted Answer

Paris-Housing offers two types of rental agreement:

Primary residence rental:suitable for individuals renting as their primary residence.
- Unfurnished rental duration: 3 years renewable (6 years if the landlord is a company).
- Furnished rental duration: 1 year renewable.
- Notice period (lease termination): 1 month.
Corporate or secondary residence rental:A flexible lease for corporate housing or secondary residences.
- Lease duration: minimum 3 months for furnished, generally 12 months for unfurnished.
- Flexible notice period: 2-3 months (can be reduced to 1 month for job relocations).

Question 4

How is rent payment processed?

Accepted Answer

Rent is typically paid by bank transfer at the start of each month. Payment should be made on the agreed date in the rental contract, usually between the 1st and 5th of each month. For properties managed by Paris-Housing, an invoice is sent at the end of each month, including a receipt for the previous month's payment.

Question 5

What furnishings are included in a furnished rental?

Accepted Answer

A furnished rental offered by our agency includes all legally required items, as well as additional amenities for your comfort.

According to regulations, each furnished apartment includes:

Complete bedding (bed, comforter or blanket)
Curtains or blinds in the bedrooms
Cooking appliances (stove and oven or microwave)
Refrigerator with freezer or freezing compartment
Necessary tableware
Cooking utensils
Table and seating
Storage shelves
Lighting fixtures
Cleaning equipment suited to the property (vacuum, broom, mop, etc.)

We also often provide additional items for extra comfort: TV, washing machine, dishwasher, and other practical accessories to enhance your stay.

Question 6

How do I create a strong rental application?

Accepted Answer

To build a strong application, you'll need to provide documents such as your ID, proof of income, tax assessments, and sometimes a guarantor. Our advisors are available to help you compile a complete dossier and guide you through the process.

Download here the PDF with the list of required documents

Question 7

How does the inspection and key handover work?

Accepted Answer

A professional inspection is conducted at move-in and move-out to check the property's condition. The key handover occurs once the contract is signed, and both the security deposit and first month's rent are paid. Your advisor coordinates everything to ensure this step goes smoothly.

Question 8

Which neighborhoods are recommended for expats in Paris?

Accepted Answer

Paris-Housing offers apartments in popular expat neighborhoods, including the 7th, 8th, 16th, and 15th arrondissements, as well as western Paris suburbs. These areas are sought after for their safety, pleasant living environment, proximity to international schools and embassies, and excellent public transport connections.

Question 9

What documents are required for foreign expat tenants?

Accepted Answer

You'll need to provide documents such as an ID, proof of income (pay slips and employer's letter), and bank references. If you don't have a guarantor in France, we can refer you to partners who offer rent guarantee insurance. We also accept income documentation from your home country in certain cases.

Question 10

Is tenant insurance required?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in France, tenant insurance is mandatory. You must obtain multi-risk home insurance, which covers damage to the apartment (fire, water damage, etc.) as well as liability for any harm caused to third parties. We can assist you with setting up insurance with a reputable company.

Question 11

How does the move-In and move-out inspection work?

Accepted Answer

The inspection is a key step at both move-in and move-out. At move-in, we check all aspects of the apartment: walls, floors, appliances, windows, and sanitary fixtures to document any issues. If you notice any problems after moving in, it's important to report them promptly for adjustment. At move-out, a similar inspection is conducted to compare the property's condition and determine any repair costs.

Question 12

Can I rent remotely before arriving in Paris?

Accepted Answer

At Paris-Housing, remote rentals are common for expats. You can arrange virtual viewings with one of our advisors, and we can even complete the lease signing before you arrive in Paris. However, if possible, we recommend visiting in person to ensure the apartment meets your expectations. Our advisors are here to assist with every step, even remotely.

Question 13

How long does the rental process take?

Accepted Answer

The rental process is generally quick. Once you find an apartment you like, it usually takes a few days from the viewing to lease signing. It's essential to submit your application quickly, as the Paris rental market is highly competitive. A complete application increases your chances of securing the desired apartment quickly.

Question 14

Are there cultural practices I should know as a foreign tenant?

Accepted Answer

As a foreign tenant, there are a few local practices to be aware of. For example, rent is due at the beginning of the month, and late payments are not tolerated. Regarding the security deposit, it must be returned within one month after move-out, and it cannot be used to cover unpaid rent. Punctual payments are very important in France.

For any requests related to the apartment, written communication with the landlord or the property manager is common.

Finally, tenants are responsible for regular maintenance of the apartment and should promptly report any issues to avoid complications. During lease signing, your letting consultant will explain your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Find your perfect apartment rental in Paris

Furnished and unfurnished apartments for rent in Paris

Why choose us for your apartment rental in Paris?

Steps to successfully rent an apartment in Paris

Define your criteria precisely

Search and select a property on the agency's website

Prepare a strong rental application

Arrange viewings with your letting consultant

Submit your application to the agency

Sign the lease and pay the security deposit

Move-in inspection and key handover

Do you have a real estate project in Paris?

Our apartment rental listings in Paris and Hauts-de-Seine

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Property Owners: Entrust us with managing your property
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Customized services for expats in Paris

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Our Agency Fees and Rental Terms

Your questions about renting apartments in Paris

Apartment rentals in Paris by Paris-Housing

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