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Late return of the security deposit
The landlord has one month after the keys are handed back if the exit inventory matches the entry inventory, two months otherwise. After that, the deposit still owed is increased by 10% of the monthly rent excluding charges for each month started.
Example
€150.00
Rent of €750 excluding charges, keys handed back on 30 June 2026, inventory with differences: deadline 30 August 2026. Deposit returned on 5 October 2026, 2 months started later: increase of €150.00.
Rules applied
- The deadline runs from the handover of the keys in person or by registered letter. The tenant then gives the address of their new home.
- The increase is not owed if the delay comes from the tenant not giving their new address.
- The base is the deposit still owed: sums owed to the landlord may be deducted if they are justified.
- Apartment building: the landlord may keep up to 20% of the deposit until the building's annual accounts are closed; the balance is returned within the month after they are approved.
- The deposit is capped at one month's rent excluding charges for an unfurnished let, two months for a furnished one. Deadlines and increase are the same in both cases.
Indicative calculation, based on the figures entered and the rules cited on this page. It is not legal, tax or financial advice, nor a recommendation to buy, sell or take any action.
Sources: art. 22, 25-3 and 25-6 of law no. 89-462 of 6 July 1989 (art. 22 as amended by law no. 2014-366 of 24 March 2014). Rules checked on 6 October 2026.