The Complete Guide to Subletting: Rules and Obligations

Are you going to be away from your home for a few days, weeks, or months and considering subletting it? As a tenant, you must comply with current regulations to sublet your home legally.

What is subletting?

Subletting occurs when a tenant makes part or all of their home available to a third party in exchange for payment. This payment can be rent or a service (e.g., cleaning).

Hosting family or friends free of charge does not count as subletting since there is no financial compensation.

Legal requirements for renting out your home in 2025

• Your home must remain your primary residence (occupied at least 8 months a year).
• You cannot rent out a secondary residence.
• Obtain written permission from your landlord before renting out any part of the property.
• Ensure the rental price does not exceed what you pay your landlord (Article 8 of the July 6, 1989 law).
• Provide your guest with a copy of the main lease and the landlord’s written authorization.

Rental period limits

You can rent out your home as long as it remains your primary residence. Some cities, like Paris, require prior registration or limit rentals to 120 days per year for short-term stays. Always check local regulations and secure landlord approval.

Tax considerations when renting out your home

You must declare any income earned from renting part of your home. If you rent one or more rooms in your primary residence to a tenant who also lives there and you respect official rental limits (206 €/m² in Île-de-France and 152 €/m² elsewhere in 2024, updated yearly), you may qualify for tax exemption.

You qualify as a professional furnished rental provider if:

• Your rental income exceeds €23,000 annually.
• This income surpasses other professional income in your household.
• You are registered with the Trade and Companies Register (RCS).

What happens if you rent out your home without permission?

If you rent out your home without written consent from your landlord, you may face penalties:

• The landlord can request to terminate your lease.
• You may be evicted.
• The landlord may claim damages if they prove harm.

Tips for renting out your home legally

• Check your lease and secure your landlord’s written permission.
• Comply with local regulations if your property is in a city with rental restrictions.
• Always declare any income earned from letting part of your home.
• Stay within rental limits to qualify for possible tax benefits.

In summary

You can let out your home under certain conditions: obtain your landlord’s written consent, set the rent in line with your lease, and meet tax obligations. Lodgis recommends that you understand the rules thoroughly before renting your home to avoid disputes and protect your rights.

For over 25 years, Lodgis has supported tenants and property owners with furnished rentals in Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Montpellier, and across France. Find your ideal furnished home with us.