Accommodation glossary

Fees and charges (frais de dossier)

You may be charged a reservation fee for certain residences and apartments. These fees vary between residences and agencies and cover costs related to the management of the property, the state of the property upon your arrival and departure, repair work to communal areas, etc.
Deposit (caution)
You will be required to pay a deposit for your rental property, which will cover any potential costs relating to damage to the property or unpaid rent. This sum usually amounts to one or two month’s worth of rent and should be paid when the contract is signed and before moving into the residence. Your deposit will be reimbursed within the two months following your departure (if the state of the property has been deemed satisfactory).

Landlord (bailleur)

Owner of the property.
Rental contract and lease (contrat de location, bail)
A binding document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords.

Property Inspection (états des lieux)

When you move into your residence, the owner or real estate agent will conduct an inspection of the property. This will serve as an inventory of the state of the residence and any property such as dishwashers, furniture, etc. The inventory should be as precise as possible to avoid any litigation occurring at the end of the tenancy and must be drawn up upon the arrival and before the departure of the tenant.

Departure notice (préavis)

When it comes time for you to move out, you will need to hand in your departure notice to your landlord so that he/she can arrange to end your lease. This letter can be sent by registered post and should specify when you intend to leave the residence. Departure notices must be given in advance and their timeframe is subject to the conditions of the rental contract.