What the landlord is legally obliged to repair
The law is clear: the landlord must provide you with habitable accommodation and maintain that standard throughout the tenancy. Their unquestionable responsibilities include: roof or wall impermeability issues, significant damp or flooding problems, a faulty collective heating system, dangerous electrical installations, major plumbing problems, and anything affecting the occupants' safety.
The 3-step procedure before escalating
Don't skip steps. Step 1: a friendly written request (a simple letter is enough), which creates a paper trail and gives the landlord a chance to respond. No response within 15 days: Step 2: a formal notice by recorded letter with acknowledgement of receipt, with a clear deadline to complete the work. Still no reaction: Step 3: referral to the conciliation commission or the court.
Immediate danger to your safety
If the problem puts your life at risk — gas leak, fire risk, exposed electrical wiring — don't wait. Call the emergency services (fire brigade, police, gas emergency line). The mayor also has police powers to order emergency repairs from a non-compliant landlord.
The temptation to withhold rent — and why it's risky
It's legally forbidden to stop paying rent to force the landlord to make repairs. This practice exposes you to eviction proceedings, even if the repairs are legitimate. The only exception: if the court explicitly authorises you to lodge rent payments in escrow. Without this explicit judicial authorisation, do not withhold rent.
What the court can order
If you take the case to court, the judge can: order the works under penalty of daily fines if the landlord delays, grant a rent reduction proportional to the disturbance suffered, and order the landlord to pay you damages. FrenchDesk generates your formal notice letter with the exact legal wording.