Landlord's rights and obligations: what the law says

Renting out a property is not just about collecting rent. As a landlord, you have rights, but also a number of legal obligations defined by the law of July 6, 1989 and governed by several regulatory texts (decrees, Civil Code, etc.).

Providing a clear and compliant lease agreement, offering a decent property, maintaining the premises, and respecting the rules governing duration, rental conditions, or termination are all essential elements to ensure a peaceful and secure rental relationship.

This practical guide outlines your obligations and rights with reliable and up-to-date information.

---

1/ Landlord's Legal Obligations

Providing a Decent Property

Before renting out a property, the landlord must ensure that it meets the decency criteria set by decree. This includes:

• no risks to the tenant's health or safety,
• a minimum surface area of 9 m² for a single person,
• presence of essential facilities (heating, water, electrical installation, sanitation, etc.),
• minimum energy performance (no properties rated G from 2025 onwards, except for exceptions),
• watertightness and sufficient natural lighting.

These criteria must be respected throughout the lease.

Maintaining the Property and Carrying Out Repairs

The landlord is responsible for general maintenance and major repairs, excluding minor repairs that are the tenant's responsibility. This includes:

• maintenance of installations,
• renovation or compliance work,
• repair of worn-out elements (roof, boiler, pipes...),
• emergency interventions (leaks, water damage, breakdowns...).

Proper communication and anticipating needs help avoid disruptions and disputes.

Respecting the Tenant's Peaceful Enjoyment

During the lease, the landlord must guarantee the tenant's peaceful enjoyment of the property. This means:

• not entering the property without permission (except in emergencies),
• not disturbing the normal use of the property,
• not abusing visitation rights (especially in case of sale or re-rental).

The condominium or neighbors must also not cause disturbances that could be attributed to you.

Informing About Renovation Work

Work can be carried out during the lease, provided that:

• the tenant is informed in writing (nature of the work, date, duration, access arrangements),
• reasonable hours are respected,
• compensation is offered if necessary (rent reduction in case of prolonged unavailability).

Energy efficiency or safety improvements may be required by law.

Providing Mandatory Documents

When signing the lease, the landlord must provide the tenant with a complete file, including:

• an energy performance certificate (DPE),
• a risk assessment (ERP),
• lead, asbestos, gas, and electrical diagnostics (depending on the property's age),
• the habitable surface area (Boutin law),
• a copy of the condominium rules if applicable,
• home insurance certificates if required.

Conducting an Inventory

An inventory is mandatory at the start and end of the tenancy. This document records the property's condition, compares usage conditions, and justifies any deductions from the security deposit if necessary.

---

2/ Landlord's Rights

Collecting Rent and Charges

The landlord is entitled to rent and charges as stipulated in the contract. They can:

• follow up in case of unpaid rent,
• require a security deposit or guarantee (GLI),
• initiate legal proceedings in case of repeated non-payment.

Requiring Routine Maintenance by the Tenant

The tenant must carry out minor repairs as listed in the official guidelines (small fixes, seals, cleaning, etc.). The landlord can demand repairs in case of clear negligence.

Accessing the Property in Certain Cases

Landlord access to the property is strictly regulated. It is allowed in the following cases:

• annual inspection for equipment maintenance (with notice),
• visits for sale or re-rental (with tenant's consent),
• emergency intervention (water damage, short-circuit...).

Terminating the Lease

The landlord can terminate the lease only at its expiry, with a notice period of:

• 6 months for an unfurnished rental,
• 3 months for a furnished rental.

Valid reasons include reclaiming the property, selling it, or serious breaches by the tenant. The notice must be sent by registered mail, bailiff's act, or hand-delivered with proof of receipt.

---

3/ Anticipating Disputes: A Management Challenge

Respecting your obligations is the best way to prevent disputes. In case of disagreement, it is advisable to:

• respond promptly to any legitimate tenant request,
• document your exchanges,
• seek professional assistance if needed (property manager, legal expert...).

Rigorous management, in compliance with the lease and legal framework, helps secure your rental investment.

---

4/ What Lodgis Offers to Landlords

Being a landlord requires commitment. If you live far away or lack time, delegation may be a solution.

As an agency specializing in furnished rentals, Lodgis offers services tailored to landlords, whether they wish to stay involved or fully delegate.

Shared Tenant Selection

Want to stay involved? Lodgis selects serious candidates with complete and verified documentation. You retain the final choice of tenant while benefiting from professional and secure support.

Full Property Management

If you prefer to delegate, Lodgis handles all aspects of management:

• Rent estimation,
• Property valuation and ad publication,
• Tenant screening and background checks,
• Lease drafting and signing,
• Rent collection,
• Inventory organization,
• Coordination of repairs and on-site interventions.

This turnkey solution helps optimize rental income and ensures property profitability with peace of mind.

---

5/ In Summary

Being a landlord involves balancing legal responsibilities, property management demands, and a trusting relationship with the tenant. By fulfilling your obligations, staying informed about legal updates, and partnering with reliable professionals, you secure your rental and enhance your real estate assets in the long term.

Interested in entrusting your property to Lodgis? Contact us to discover our offers tailored to your needs.

Back to Practical Advice