When should you pay your first rent?

Gaining independence also means having more responsibilities. When it's time to find a home, you also need to find out about rental charges, rent advances, and the security deposit. Knowing when to pay your first rent and how to settle these costs is an obligation that every tenant must respect under penalty of sanctions.

When should a tenant pay their rent?

There are different methods for paying the first rent, depending on the situation you are in.

Paying the first rent for private housing

The payment of the first rent is a pro-rata of the number of days of the current month to be spent in the property. This means that if you sign the lease for an unfurnished or furnished apartment on the 15th of the month, you will have to pay half of a full rent. The owner may require payment at the time of signing which corresponds, in most cases, to the handing over of the keys. Of course, the day of moving in is taken into account to determine exactly when to pay your first rent.

When to pay the first rent for social housing (HLM)?

In the case of social housing, the Alur law does not bring changes to the payment of the first rent. The amount due to the owner must be paid on the date provided in the signed contract. The only difference between a private sector rental and social housing is the price regulation by the government, as well as the aid offered to people who cannot afford to pay by their own means.

Can a landlord ask for a first rent in advance?

The law gives landlords a free hand if they want to claim an advance payment. Unlike paying rent for a month already started, you will have to pay a full month, regardless of the date you move in. Furthermore, no security deposit is required by the landlord for an advance payment of two months.

Other situations

For example, there is payment of rent in arrears, meaning the sum of money will be handed over at the end of the month lived in. The two signatories can also decide to choose any day of the month to make the transfer. Generally, this mode suits employees who receive their salaries after the 5th day of the month. Others choose a quarterly or semi-annual rhythm to be paid in advance. Both parties must agree, and these conditions remain modifiable thereafter regarding when to pay your first rent.

Until when should the rent be paid?

The tenant must pay the charges and the rent until the end of their lease, i.e., until the move-out inspection on the day the keys are returned. Even in the event of serious failures by the landlord regarding work, the tenant must continue to pay the money (which may be blocked by the court). In the event of a move, if the landlord finds a new tenant during your notice period, you no longer pay from the day they move in. Do not forget to ask for a receipt or a certificate of payment.

Methods of payment for the first rent

There are different ways to make the payment: direct debit, TIP, check or cash (less than 1,000 euros). The landlord has no right to collect the sum directly from the tenant's salary, even with their agreement.

What must the tenant pay in addition to their rent?

Rental charges and the housing tax (THL), which is the responsibility of the occupant present on January 1st, must be added.

Leaving your home in search of a new roof

First, you must find a new home (check Colonies offers to make it easier). Next, inform your former landlord by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt (LRAR). Finally, carry out a move-out inspection to recover your rental guarantee.