• In case of fire in your apartment (from making popcorn for example!), you have 5 business days to notify your insurance company.
• In case of theft, you have 48 hours from the time you notice the theft to file a complaint. In case of water damage, we advise you to fill out a “constat à l’aimiable” report (a form available from your insurance agency). Home insurance does not cover damage in parking areas (for example, damage to your car would be covered by car insurance).
• Bicycles, stored in the bike rack area, are not covered by home insurance nor by the building’s insurance.

To receive a rent subsidy, the lease must be in your name. If you are under 20 and your parents still receive family allowance, you cannot combine the two allowances. You must contact the CAF to obtain further information.

A security deposit and a guarantee aren’t the same thing..

The security deposit is paid when an apartment is rented. It is collected by the landlord to cover the cost of all repairs due to damage caused by the tenant. The security deposit cannot exceed one month rent for apartments that are only fully equipped (but not furnished) and must be returned within two months of being given notice of termination.

In general a guarantee is required when the tenant’s income is insufficient. The guarantor provides the financial guarantee. He pledges to fulfill all of the tenant’s obligations if the tenant can no longer pay the rent.

The lease is a mandatory formality required to obtain tenant status.

The apartment inventory and condition report is absolutely necessary. In the absence of this document, you risk being held responsible for damage made by the previous tenant.

• Pay your rent and maintenance fee on the date specified in your lease.
• “quiet and peaceful possession of the leased premises” and “in a prudent and responsible fashion”: are legal terms meaning being a responsible tenant.
• Pay for the maintenance and repair of wear and tear in the apartment. The list is generally attached to the lease.
• Not to alter the premises in any way without the written agreement of the landlord.
• Not to transfer or sublet your apartment (without the written agreement of the landlord, specifying the rent).
• Respect the rules and regulations of the residence.

• You have the right to “peaceful enjoyment” of the premises. This means that the owner must make sure that the premises are peaceful and quiet.
• You have the right to make small additions that do not constitute a permanent alteration the apartment (so, it’s ok if you want to put in shelves), but be careful! When you return the apartment, the landlord will require you to remove them and make any necessary repairs.

The maintenance fee covers expenses incurred during the general maintenance of the building and for common services.

It is customary to pay the maintenance fee in advance as a monthly payment.
This advance must be justified and is adjusted annually by the landlord.
However, the maintenance fee adjustment can also be made in the course of the year. Some furnished residences include the maintenance fee in the rent. If that is the case, you will not receive a separate bill for the maintenance fee.