Housing
Looking for a rental
recherche d'un logement en location
What is it
Applying for a private rental in France. A decree fixes exactly which documents a landlord or agency may ask a candidate for, and anything outside that list may not be demanded.
Do I need it
Yes, if you are renting privately — furnished or unfurnished — as your main home.
When
Before you start viewings, so your papers are ready when a flat comes up.
Where · mixed
Directly with landlords and letting agencies. The list of permitted documents is published on service-public.gouv.fr.
Documents
One valid identity document showing your photograph and signature
One proof of your current address
One proof of your professional activity
Proof of your income, such as a tax notice or payslips
What happens next
What a landlord may ask a future tenant for →
- The landlord or agency compares the files it has received and chooses a tenant.
- A landlord who asks for a document outside the permitted list is liable to a fine; the amounts are set out on the source page.
- If you are chosen, you sign a lease and an état des lieux is drawn up when you collect the keys.
SOURCE: SERVICE-PUBLIC.GOUV.FR
CHECKED 18.09.2026