12. Duration of Tenancy of French Rental Properties

1. 12.1. Unfurnished Lettings
2. 12.2. Furnished Lettings

12.1. Duration of Tenancy of Unfurnished Lettings in France

This does not imply that the tenant is obliged to stay in the property, or pay rent on it, for a minimum three year period, but that the landlord cannot grant a tenancy for a lesser period.

There are only a limited number of such circustances where this rule can be applied, such as use of the property by a close relative, for the birth of a child necessitating a larger home, or for occupational reasons.

A ‘close relative’ of the landlord is defined as their spouse, partner or parents and children or parents and children of their spouse or partner.

In order to realise this exemption, a minimum of two months notice must be given to terminate the tenancy and the name and address of the prospective occupant(s) must be given on the notice.

The notice must either be given in writing by recorded deliver letter (lettre recommandée avec avis de reception) from the landlord or delivered by a huissier (an official bailiff).

If the event occurs later than that anticipated when the tenancy agreement was signed then the landlord is obliged to extend the duration of the tenancy by the same period.

If the anticipated event does not materialise, or the landlord does not give two months notice before the end of the tenancy, the tenancy automatically becomes a three-year tenancy from the original commencement date.

If you intend to make use of this provision, you would be well-advised to have the tenancy agreement prepared in front of a notaire, as careful drafting of the agreement will be required.