What is an inventory of fixtures in a rental agreement?
It must be conducted in the presence of both parties, that is, with the tenant and the landlord (or their representatives: real estate agency, bailiff, etc.) present.
This document is a reference tool, required by the ALUR Act, that protects both parties in the event of disagreements regarding the condition of the dwelling at the end of the lease:
- The tenant must prove that he or she returned the dwelling in the same condition as when he or she moved in, except for normal wear and tear.
- The landlord may withhold funds from the security deposit in the event of damage.
What should you check during the move-in inspection?
The move-in inspection must be precise, thorough, detailed, and conducted with care, and should include supporting photographs to avoid any disputes. You should check each room of the dwelling (entryway, living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, toilet, and basement, if applicable) for the following:
- Walls, ceilings, floors, woodwork, doors, windows, and shutters;
- Check that the electrical system, plumbing, and heating are working properly. Be sure to test the faucets and toilet flush, as well as the outlets and light switches;
- The condition of the provided equipment (boiler, electric water heater, fully equipped kitchen, appliances, light fixtures, etc.), along with a detailed inventory in the case of a furnished rental;
- Water, gas, and electricity meters, the readings of which must be recorded;
- The proper functioning of door keys, mailbox keys, and access badges for the residence;
- The overall cleanliness of the residence.
To be valid, the move-in inspection report must be signed by both parties: the tenant and the landlord (or by the agency representing the landlord).
The tenant may add comments to the inventory if he or she notices any discrepancies. The tenant has 10 days after receiving the keys to report any errors or omissions (Article 3-2 of the Law of July 6, 1989).
The move-in inspection is conducted when the keys to the residence are handed over to the tenant and will be attached to the lease.
What should you check during the move-out inspection?
The move-out inspection takes place at the end of the lease. It serves as a comparison to the move-in inspection and makes it possible to determine, if necessary, whether there have been any major changes or damage to the property. This is why it must be just as precise and thorough as the move-in inspection and must, in particular, take into account the normal wear and tear and age of the property or its fixtures and fittings.
Normal wear and tear (due to the passage of time), for which there is a depreciation schedule, cannot be charged to the tenant. However, damage (holes, stains, broken equipment, etc.) may justify a deduction from the security deposit to cover repair costs.
During a move-out inspection, it is important to note the tenant's new address.
Good to know: In the event of a dispute, it is possible to hire a bailiff to prepare a bailiff’s inventory, the cost of which is split equally between the landlord and the tenant (Service-public.fr).
When should an inventory of fixtures be conducted?
Whether renting an unfurnished or furnished property, it is mandatory to conduct an inspection of the rental property:
- Upon the tenant's move-in, when the keys are handed over.
- Upon moving out, when returning the apartment.
Whether it is a move-in or move-out inventory, each document must be dated, signed by both parties, include the address of the dwelling, the names of the landlord and tenant, and the meter readings.
How Do You Properly Fill Out a Move-Out Inspection Form?
Regardless of which move-in inspection template you choose—whether on plain paper or using a digital app powered by dedicated professional software—it is important to:
- Describe each item separately that needs to be reviewed
- Use precise terminology (“good condition,” “shown signs of use,” “needs repair”).
- If possible, please attach photos that show the condition of the property.
- Record the exact number of keys or badges given to the tenant
- Sign each page and keep one original copy for each party.
An official move-in inspection form is available on the government website (Service-public.fr).
How much does an inventory of fixtures cost?
The move-in inspection report is a free document when it is prepared between the landlord and the tenant as private individuals.
On the other hand:
- If the landlord entrusts a real estate agency with conducting the move-in inspection, the costs of the inspection may be billed to the tenant, up to a regulated maximum (€3 per square meter of living space in areas with very tight housing markets).
- If the landlord hires a bailiff, the cost to the landlord is approximately €150 to €250.
Can an inventory of fixtures be amended after it has been signed?
Yes, only the move-in inventory can be modified under certain conditions.
The tenant may request a change within 10 days of signing the lease to correct an error or report a defect that was not visible during the initial inspection, and within 30 days after the heating system is turned on.
However, with regard to the move-out inspection, it may only be amended in the presence of both parties or a bailiff, and this must also be done within 10 days.
