Paying rent is a fundamental obligation for every tenant. But when exactly should it be paid? What are the rules to follow, and what are the consequences of late payment? In this article, find all the essential information about rent payment deadlines.
When to pay rent: Rules to know
The legal rent payment date
In France, the law does not specify a strict deadline for rent payment. However, the rental agreement (lease) must outline the payment terms, including the due date.
Typically, rent is paid monthly, often at the beginning of the month. This is called “advance payment,” meaning you pay rent for the upcoming month. For instance, January’s rent is paid at the beginning of January. At Colivys, this is our preferred method.
There’s also “arrears payment,” where rent is paid at the end of the month for the past month, though this is much less common.
If no specific date is mentioned in your lease, rent must be paid by the end of each month. However, it’s highly recommended to have a clearly stated payment date in your contract to avoid misunderstandings, ideally between the 28th and the 5th of each month, as this often aligns with when salaries or allowances are paid.
Mandatory information on the lease about rent payment
Pay close attention to what’s written in your rental agreement. It must include specific details regarding rent payment, such as:
- The rent amount
- Additional charges and how they are handled
- The payment date
- Accepted payment methods
At Colivys, we inform our tenants that “monthly rent must be paid between the 1st and 3rd of the respective month, via bank transfer or direct debit.”
Can the rent payment date be changed?
Rental agreements are governed by law no. 89-462 of July 6, 1989. This law allows for the rent payment date to be changed if both parties—the tenant and the landlord—agree. If you want to modify the payment date, here’s what to do:
- Submit your request in writing to your landlord, explaining your reasons.
- If the landlord agrees, draft an amendment to the lease specifying the new payment date.
- Both parties must sign this amendment to officially modify the initial agreement.
Your landlord is not obligated to accept your request. If they refuse, you must adhere to the original date stipulated in the lease.
Accepted payment methods
Bank transfer: The preferred option
Bank transfer is the most common and convenient way to pay rent because:
- It’s secure: No risk of loss or theft, as with checks or cash.
- It’s traceable: Every transaction is recorded and dated by your bank.
- It’s automatable: Set up a standing order for the due date to avoid missed payments.
Interested? Just configure a standing order through your online banking portal or app by following these steps:
- Go to the “Transfers” or “Payments” section.
- Choose “Create a standing order.”
- Enter your landlord’s banking details.
- Specify the amount, execution date, and duration of the transfer.
- Confirm with your bank’s security protocol (usually a code sent via SMS).
Since procedures vary by bank, consult your bank’s customer service or search online for detailed instructions.
Checks: A fading option
Although still accepted, paying by checks come with several drawbacks:
- Risk of loss or theft: Dated and signed checks can easily be misused.
- Potential rejection: Insufficient funds may result in a bounced check, leaving the landlord unpaid.
- Extra administrative work: Checks must be physically deposited, and rejected payments involve additional formalities.
Moreover, many banks are reducing the number of free checks available, making this payment method more expensive. However, it is still used by some landlords, particularly older ones or those who prefer to have a physical record of the payment. At Colivys, we have chosen not to accept this payment method.
Cash: A limited but possible option
Cash payment is legal but subject to certain restrictions:
- The amount must not exceed €1,000.
- The landlord must issue a receipt for each payment.
- You must provide the exact amount, as landlords are not required to accept more than 50 coins in a single transaction.
While cash payments are risky (theft, loss, counterfeit bills) and inconvenient for large sums, they may be an option for international tenants without access to other methods. Exercise caution if using this method.
Emerging digital payment methods
The world is evolving, and so are payment methods! New payment solutions are emerging, making it even easier to pay your rent. Here are some of our favorites:
- Mobile payment apps for peer-to-peer transfers: Apps like PayLib, Wero, and Pumpkin allow you to make payments from smartphone to smartphone. Simply enter your landlord’s phone number or email, and the payment is done! These apps also work internationally, making them perfect if you’re an expat.
- Online rental management platforms with integrated payment systems: These solutions automate payments, provide real-time transaction tracking, and help reduce the risk of late payments.
- Remote credit card payment solutions: These methods don’t require the tenant’s physical presence but rely on a payment terminal (POS) with remote payment software. Tenants can pay using a secure link sent via email, safeguarded with 3D Secure technology.
What to do if you can’t pay rent on time
Communicate with your landlord or property manager
If you’re having trouble paying your rent, don’t let the situation drag on or wait for reminders to pile up. The first step is to inform your landlord or property manager. It’s always better to be honest and propose solutions.
For example, you could explain to your manager that you’re facing financial difficulties and won’t be able to pay your rent on time this month. Also, assure them that you’ll do your best to pay it by a specific date. Request an additional X days to make the payment.
Take the initiative. Transparent communication shows good faith and can pave the way for amicable solutions. You’ll find that everything tends to work out better this way.
Financial assistance for tenants
Several government programs can help you cover your rent:
- Personal Housing Assistance (APL) or Housing Allowance (AL) from CAF:
-
- Eligibility: Depends on income, family status, and rent amount.
- Application: Apply through the CAF website.
- Housing Solidarity Fund (FSL):
-
- Eligibility: For temporary financial hardships.
- Application: Contact your local social worker or municipality.
- Action Logement:
-
- Eligibility: For private sector employees or apprentices.
- Application: Apply online via the Action Logement website.
To apply, here are the typically required documents:
- Proof of identity (ID, passport, residence permit)
- Lease agreement
- Income proof (pay slips)
- Rent receipts
- Bank statements
Payment installments
Have you informed your landlord about your late payment, and they’ve agreed to grant you an extension? That’s a great step forward. You can now meet with your landlord to propose and agree on a payment schedule together. Here’s an example:
“Following our discussion about my payment difficulties, I propose the following schedule:
- January 15: 50% of January’s rent
- January 31: Remaining 50% of January’s rent
- February 15: February’s rent
I commit to honoring this schedule. Please confirm your agreement.”
Formalize the agreement in writing, signed by both parties.
Consequences of late payment
Late payment penalties: Myth or reality?
Contrary to popular belief, landlords are not allowed to impose late payment penalties for rent. This is explicitly prohibited by the ALUR law of March 27, 2014. Even if such a clause is included in your lease, it will be considered abusive and therefore void.
However, if you are late on your rent payments, your landlord may:
- Claim legal interest on the overdue amount, but only after a court ruling.
- Charge actual costs incurred for debt recovery (such as bailiff fees).
Risk of eviction proceedings
Have you been accumulating late payments? Worse, have your missed payments become repetitive? In such cases, your landlord may initiate eviction proceedings against you. This process involves several steps and begins with:
- Payment Order: A bailiff delivers a payment order to your residence.
- Court Summons: You are summoned to a hearing.
- Hearing and Judgment: The court examines the case and issues a decision.
- Eviction Notice: If eviction is ordered, you’ll have two months to vacate.
- Enforced Eviction: If you don’t leave, authorities can intervene.
This process can take months or over a year. Tenants have rights and possible recourse, and tenant advocacy organizations can offer support.
Impact on tenant-landlord relations
Late payments can seriously damage your relationship with your landlord or property manager. Trust is essential to maintain a healthy dynamic. If that trust has been broken, it’s important to rebuild it by:
- Communicating transparently about your situation.
- Strictly honoring any commitments made (such as payment plans).
- Proposing proactive solutions (like setting up an automatic transfer).
- Making up for potential inconveniences caused (for instance, by carrying out small maintenance tasks, if possible).
Tips to never miss the rent payment deadline
Set up an automatic transfer
Our motto? Automatic transfers. It’s the most reliable way to pay your rent on time. Here’s how to set it up (and it’s quite simple):
- Log in to your online banking platform, either via the website or your bank’s app.
- Go to the “Transfers” or “Recurring Payments” section.
- Select “Create a standing order.”
- Enter the recipient’s information (your landlord or property manager).
- Set the rent amount and the monthly execution date.
- Define the duration (typically “until further notice”).
- Confirm the operation with your security code.
Pro tip: If you don’t schedule an immediate transfer, program it 2–3 days before the due date provided by your landlord. This accounts for banking delays, weekends, and public holidays.
Use reminder apps
If you’re forgetful, apps can help you stay on track:
Your smartphone calendar (Free):
- Create a recurring event for your rent payment.
- Set reminders a few days before the due date.
Expense management apps (Sometimes paid):
- Mint: Tracks expenses and sends bill payment reminders.
- YNAB (You Need A Budget): Helps with budget planning and includes reminders.
To-do list apps (Often free):
- Todoist: Create a recurring task for your rent payment.
- Microsoft To Do: Syncs with your calendar for effective reminders.
Choose automatic debit with Colivys
At Colivys, we simplify rent payments through secure automatic debit with:
- Flexible payment dates tailored to your needs.
- Notifications before each withdrawal.
Setting it up is simple: during your registration, you just need to provide your bank account details and opt for automatic debit.
However, we understand that automatic debit is not an option for everyone. Many of our tenants are international, so it is entirely possible for them to pay their rent via bank transfer or in cash.
Coliving: A simplified all-inclusive payment solution
Benefits of one monthly payment with Colivys
As a Colivys tenant, enjoy an all-in-one payment system:
- One monthly payment covering rent, utilities, and services.
- No surprises: A fixed, pre-determined amount.
- Transparent billing sent via email before the due date.
How coliving billing works?
At Colivys, we strive to ensure our billing process is simple and transparent: you receive a monthly invoice detailing the amount due. This includes your rent, associated charges, and any optional services you may have requested. The chosen payment method is also specified.
Utility charges are fairly distributed among all colivers. In the event of exceptional overconsumption (e.g., electricity, water), adjustments are made at the time of your check-out, with the additional costs equally divided among all tenants. You are clearly informed of this during the signing of your contract and your move-in inspection.
Paying rent on time is crucial for maintaining good relations with your landlord and avoiding legal issues. At Colivys, we streamline this process with all-inclusive plans and flexible payment options. Contact us to learn more about our coliving solutions that combine comfort and peace of mind.
