Everything you need to know about the costs associated with renting a property in France

Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure in France? Whether you're looking for a short-term or long-term rental accommodation, understanding your rights and knowing what expenses to expect is key.

Worry not - this article will provide all the answers! Get prepared with us as we explore all the questions related to costs associated with renting a home.

1. The security deposit: The deposit has to be paid directly to the owner or the real estate agency that is managing the property at the same time as you sign the rental agreement. This amount serves as a guarantee to cover any damages during your stay in the apartment. It will be restored to you at the end of the rental period if no degradation is noticed in the rented property.
   Legally, the amount of the security deposit cannot exceed one month's rent excluding utilities for unfurnished rentals, and two months' rent excluding utilities for furnished rentals.
   Example: For a monthly rent of 2 000 € + 150 € of utilities, your security deposit for an unfurnished rental should not exceed: 2 000€ and for a furnished rental it should not exceed 4 000 €
   

2. Rent + charges: This is the amount you pay monthly to the owner (or agency) each month.
   The amount of the rent is fixed by the owner and is indicated in the rental contract. At the same time as the signature of the rental agreement, you will have to pay the pro rata of the first month's rent
   Example: If your rental agreement begins on the 10th of the month, you are liable for rent + charges for the period from the 10th to the last day of the month. For example in you enter the property the 10th of june and your monthly rent is 2 000 € + 150 € of charges, you will have to pay (2 150 € / 30 ) * 21 = 1 505 €
   

3. Agency fees: If you are renting a property through a real estate agency, you will have to pay agency fees. The amount of these fees are regulated by the government and cannot exceed €12/m2 for very high-demand areas and €10/m2 for high-demand areas.

   To this amount are added the inventory (entry-inspection) costs which are a maximum of 3€ / m2 in all areas.

   Example: If you rent a 30 m2 property in a very high-demand area you will have to pay 30*15 €, so a total of 450 € agency fees (Calculation: (€12 + €3) x 3
   
   

4. Good to know:

   The agency fees paid by the tenant may under no circumstances exceed the agency fees paid by the lessor.

   Agency fees must be indicated inclusive of tax.
   
   Renting a property in France can be complicated to navigate, especially if you are unaware of the costs associated with renting.
   From the security deposit and rent, to the utilities and agency fees, there is plenty for potential tenants to consider when in search for a rented property.
   It’s important not to be taken advantage of and be aware of scams associated with renting and know your rights.
   And lastly, it’s essential to thoroughly understand all these costs before signing any rental agreement.