Tenancy agreement: template, clauses and French ALUR law
Updated on July 1, 2026 · 7 min read
The lease sets out the rights and obligations of landlord and tenant. French ALUR law imposes a standard template for a primary residence. Here are the mandatory details and points to watch.
The ALUR standard template
For an unfurnished or furnished primary residence, the lease must follow the standard template set by decree: parties, property description, rent, term and security deposit.
Mandatory details
A compliant lease states:
- landlord and tenant identity;
- start date and term (3 years unfurnished, 1 year furnished, as a rule);
- property description, living area and equipment;
- rent, its review terms, and the security deposit.
Prohibited clauses
Some clauses are deemed unwritten even if included: making direct debit the only payment method, abusive late-payment fees, or automatic termination outside legal cases.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the minimum lease term?
- For an unfurnished primary residence: 3 years (private landlord). Furnished: usually 1 year, or 9 months for a student lease.
- Is the security deposit capped?
- Yes: in principle 1 month’s rent excluding charges when unfurnished, up to 2 months when furnished.