The 5 Essential Documents for Landlords in France

Investing in Rental Property: A Secure and Profitable Choice

 

Investing in real estate for rental purposes is one of the most secure investments available today. However, while this type of investment offers both security and strong profitability potential, it requires active management and strategic actions to optimize its returns. To protect yourself and ensure the best possible management of your investment, five key documents are essential for every landlord.

 

Les 5 documents clés du bailleur

The 5 Essential Documents for Landlords

To safeguard your interests as a real estate investor, there are five key documents you should have in place:

1. The Lease Agreement

The lease agreement is the most fundamental document that formalizes the relationship between the landlord and the tenant, outlining their rights and obligations. However, keep in mind that you are not free to include just any clause in your lease. The French government strictly regulates rental agreements by specifying mandatory clauses and prohibiting unfair provisions that could impose unreasonable obligations on either party.

 

If you find this overwhelming, don’t worry! Qlower assists you in drafting a legally compliant lease agreement. By simply filling out a questionnaire, you can generate a lease that fully aligns with legal requirements while protecting your interests. If you already have a lease in place, Qlower can audit your contract and provide expert recommendations for future agreements.

2. The Move-in and Move-out Inspection Report (État des lieux)

Since 1989, the move-in and move-out inspection report has been mandatory. This document provides a detailed description of your property’s condition when the tenant moves in and out. It serves as critical proof in case of damage during the rental period, allowing you to establish tenant liability and recover costs for necessary repairs.

 

Although no specific format is legally required, this document must be precise and detailed to accurately reflect the property’s condition. Qlower offers a standardized inspection template if you prefer to conduct the inspection yourself. Additionally, we have partnered with a professional service that can perform this task on your behalf if needed.

3. The Tenant’s Home Insurance Certificate (MRH)

Before handing over the keys, you must ensure your tenant has taken out a Multi-Risk Home Insurance (MRH) policy, which is legally required. This insurance covers most risks associated with your property. If your tenant fails to maintain this coverage, your Landlord Insurance (PNO) will take over.

 

Qlower strongly advises you to request proof of insurance before giving your tenant access to the property and to renew this request annually. Our platform makes it easy for you to store these documents in your Qlower client space, and we’ll even remind you each year to request the certificate—or we can handle it for you!

4. Rent Payment Guarantee

si vous en prenez une, est une étape fondamentale. Ainsi, une grande rigueur est nécessaire dans la collecte des justificatifs, dans la prise de la garantie et dans la manière de la mettre en jeu ! Si vous optez pour une caution solidaire : l’analyse de la solvabilité de la personne choisie et le formalisme de la rédaction de l’acte sont fondamentaux.

5. Landlord Insurance (Propriétaire Non Occupant - PNO)

If your property is part of a co-ownership, PNO insurance is mandatory—yet many landlords still fail to subscribe to it! Qlower strongly recommends PNO insurance as it protects you against unlimited risks, including situations where:

 

  • Your tenant stops paying their home insurance
  • A damaging incident occurs between two rental periods
  • Hidden issues, such as water leaks beneath a bathtub, arise
  •  

Choosing the right coverage is critical. To make this easier, Qlower has partnered with a specialized insurer to provide tailored PNO insurance at a competitive rate, ensuring you receive the best protection.

Qlower's Expert Advice

Conseil Qlower

Qlower is your smart rental management assistant.

 

We support proactive landlords who actively manage their properties and want to optimize their rental yields while reducing operating costs. From day-to-day property management to tax reporting, Qlower guides you every step of the way.

 

In short, Qlower is for landlords who mean business! 😉

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