Tenants: new charges to be paid from 2026 in France, what’s changing for your housing budget
From 2026, new rules will govern agency fees and other rental-related costs. For tenants, this means scales adjusted in line with the IRL index, and clearer practices.
What’s new for rentals in 2026
The principle is simple and straightforward. From now on, fee scales will be adjusted in line with theIRL. The ceilings remain set by law, to preserve the balance. As a result, tenants benefit from a stable but up-to-date framework.
What services are covered? These include visiting the property, compiling the file and drafting the
The scope covers empty and furnished rentals managed by professionals. In practice, agencies will be required to display up-to-date, verifiable rates. What’s more, no overcharging not provided for by law may be demanded. Tenants must therefore be given clear information before signing any contract.
“From 2026, agency fees will follow the IRL, with framed ceilings and clearer information for all.”
How much can it cost and when?
In practical terms, the adjustment will take effect at the time a file is processed. A candidate who signs up in 2026 will pay fees in line with the revised scale. On the other hand, an existing tenant will not be charged additional fees without a specific service. Tenants are particularly concerned when they move into a new home.
The budgetary impact remains contained, but real, depending on the zone. In a high-demand area, pressure can push the bill up to legal limits. So ask for a
- Check the zone of the property and the applicable ceilings.
- Check the rates displayed in the agency and on the ad.
- Ask for a precise estimate per service before any payment.
- Insist on a detailed invoice and keep all receipts.
- Compare several professionals to assess the cost difference.
Let’s take a common example. An attractive property changes hands in the spring of 2026. The rent scale will have been updated with the latest published IRL value. As a result, tenants will see a measured but predictable variation.
Unchanged legal rules and points to watch out for
The logic behind the sharing rules remains the same. Costs charged to the tenant cannot exceed those payable by the lessor. What’s more, they remain capped per square meter and per type of service. In this way, tenants retain concrete safeguards.
Prices must be clearly displayed in the agency and on advertisements. Always ask for an invoice detailing each line. On the other hand, a fixed price that exceeds a ceiling is not enforceable. Also, tenants can contest a non-conforming amount.
In the event of disagreement, start with a written and dated complaint. Then take the matter to the professional’s mediation service if the answer is not forthcoming. Keep emails, quotes and receipts as proof. This helps tenants to assert their rights.
Understanding the IRL and its role
TheIRL measures changes in consumer prices excluding rent and tobacco. It is published periodically by the national statistics institute. It already serves as a benchmark for rent increases. From now on, it will also be used as a benchmark for certain fees paid by tenants.
When the IRL rises, the scales can be adjusted without retroactive effect. In addition, the legal ceiling continues to apply to each benefit. On the other hand, a sudden increase remains limited by this dual framework. As a result, tenants have a predictable lever to follow variations.
Preparing for 2026: best practices
Anticipate your search and set a realistic budget. First, gather all the documents, guarantor and supporting documents you need to make a solid case. Next, identify areas where demand is high. This way, tenants will be more responsive from the very first visit.
Negotiate a timetable to avoid any rush. Ask for a list of the services included in the fees. In addition, check to see if there are any fees not covered by the fee schedule. On the other hand, refuse to accept any line that is not provided for in the law.
Reread the lease and check the amounts shown. Also, ask for simple explanations of each item. Ask for the documents to be handed over at the time of payment. Keep everything in an accessible file, in case you need it.
Compare the advertisements and rates displayed by several agencies. Then take notes on the ceilings and services offered. In short, this method avoids surprises when you sign. Your project then moves forward with peace of mind.
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