By Manuel Ravier, Head of Rental Support at residenceetudiante.fr · Published on October 7, 2026

Quick Answer
The landlord has one month to return the security deposit if the move-out inspection is satisfactory, and two months if damage is noted. In the event of an unjustified delay, the amount due is automatically increased by 10% of the monthly rent (excluding service charges) for every month of delay that has begun.

Key Takeaways
The statutory deadline for returning the deposit is one month for a satisfactory inspection and two months if issues are noted. Source: Service-Public.fr, 2026 data.
Any financial deduction made by the landlord must be supported by a cost estimate or an itemized invoice. Source: Légifrance, Law of July 6, 1989.
Statutory late payment penalty: 10% of the monthly rent (excluding service charges) per month of delay begun. Source: ANIL, 2026 report.
The average rent for student housing is €580 per month, excluding service charges. Source: Meilleursagents.com, 2026 market report.
Out of 4,680 move-outs managed via residenceetudiante.fr in 2026, 97% of security deposits were returned within 15 days, thanks to the use of digital, jointly signed inspection reports. Source: residenceetudiante.fr internal data, recorded on October 7, 2026.

About the Author

Manuel Ravier is an expert in tenancy law and resident protection at residenceetudiante.fr. He assists students and young professionals throughout their lease and helps them assert their rights regarding the return of their security deposit.

What are the statutory timeframes for recovering a security deposit?
The timeframe for returning the security deposit is strictly defined by Article 22 of the Law of July 6, 1989. This period begins on the day the keys are handed over in person or received via registered mail following the move-out inspection.

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