Property Inspection in Toulouse: How to Avoid Disputes

The Property Inventory in Toulouse: How to Avoid Disputes

In Toulouse, as throughout France, the property inventory (état des lieux) is one of the most important documents in any tenancy. It protects the tenant upon departure and the landlord throughout the rental period. Yet when poorly drafted or rushed, it becomes the primary source of property disputes between landlords and tenants. Here is how to carry it out properly to avoid any conflict.

The Check-In Inventory: Rules to Follow

The check-in inventory must be conducted jointly — meaning in the presence of both the tenant and the landlord (or their representatives) — on the day the keys are handed over. It must be written, dated and signed by both parties. The ALUR Act of 2014 requires minimum content:

• The exact address of the property and a room-by-room description.
• The condition of each surface: walls, ceilings, floors, woodwork.
• The condition of equipment: taps, shutters, appliances if provided.
• Meter readings: water, gas, electricity.
• Keys handed over and their nature (door key, letterbox, garage).

A standard form is prescribed by decree. Its use is mandatory for rentals subject to the Act of 6 July 1989 (unfurnished or furnished properties used as primary residence). The tenant has 10 days after signing to report defects that may have been missed, and 1 month for issues related to heating (only detectable in cold weather).

Common Pitfalls in Toulouse

Toulouse’s very tight rental market sometimes pressures tenants into signing quickly. Here are the most common mistakes:

• Signing without careful checking: take the time to inspect every room, switch on every light, test every tap and appliance. Photograph everything.
• Failing to note minor damage: a scratch on the floor or a mark on a wall must be mentioned, or you will be held responsible when you leave.
• Inventory conducted without the tenant: if the landlord carries out the inventory alone and sends it by post, you have the right to request a joint inspection.
• Vague descriptions: “good general condition” is not enough. Insist on precise descriptions such as “floor with light scratches at the foot of the living room window.”
• Forgetting annexes: cellar, car park, garden and balcony must appear in the inventory alongside the main rooms.

The Check-Out Inventory: Protecting Your Deposit

Most disputes arise during the check-out inventory. The landlord has 1 month to return the security deposit if the check-out inventory matches the check-in one, and 2 months if damage is noted. Any deduction must be justified by quotes or invoices.

It is important to distinguish between:

• Normal wear and tear: slight fading of paintwork, floor wear from daily use, minor wall marks — these are the landlord’s responsibility.
• Damage attributable to the tenant: holes in walls, burns on floors, broken windows, stained carpets.

In the event of a dispute, the Departmental Conciliation Commission (CDC de la Haute-Garonne) offers a free service and must be approached before any legal action.

We Care Conciergerie: Your Stress-Free Inventory Partner

For expatriates and executives on assignment in Toulouse, conducting a thorough property inventory in a foreign language and different legal context can be daunting. We Care Conciergerie supports you by representing you at the check-in or check-out inspection, verifying the document’s compliance, methodically photographing every room, and advising you on your rights.

We also coordinate minor repairs before the check-out (painting, professional cleaning, locksmith) to maximise your chances of recovering your full deposit. Contact us at welcome@wecare-conciergerie.com.

Conclusion: A Thorough Inventory Means Years of Peace

The property inventory is not a formality — it is the foundation of a peaceful tenancy. Take the time to do it properly at check-in and you will avoid almost all disputes at check-out. In Toulouse, where the market is tight and properties are in demand, good preparation makes all the difference. We Care Conciergerie is here to support you, from finding your home to handing back the keys.