Flat-Sharing in Paris: Single Lease or Individual Leases, What Really Changes

Flat-sharing, an increasingly popular choice

With a 50 m² one-bedroom flat renting for over €1,600 a month on average in Paris, flat-sharing (colocation) gives access to a larger space or a better neighbourhood. But the type of contract changes everything when someone leaves or rent goes unpaid.

Single lease: one contract for everyone

All flatmates sign the same lease. It almost always contains a joint liability clause (clause de solidarité): each person can be required to pay the full rent if another does not.

• If a flatmate leaves, they remain jointly liable, along with their guarantor, for up to six months after the end of their notice, unless a replacement is added to the lease before then.
• The replacement is chosen with the agreement of the remaining flatmates.
• Notice given by the landlord to one flatmate applies to all.

Individual leases: one contract per room

Each flatmate signs their own lease for their room and use of the shared areas. They only pay their share and, when leaving, owe rent only until the end of their notice. In return, the landlord alone chooses the new occupant. Each room must be at least 9 m² and 20 m³.

Rent control and insurance

In Paris, the total rent of the flat-share cannot exceed the cap for the whole property. Check it with our method.

Each flatmate must be insured at least for tenant liability risks. A joint policy is possible if it names every occupant.

Our advice before signing

• Read the joint liability clause and its duration.
• Agree a written rule among yourselves for departures and choosing a replacement.
• Build consistent applications: one weak file weakens the whole bid. Our article on the 7 mistakes that sink an application applies to every flatmate.
• For guarantees, see our solutions to rent without three months' rent upfront.

Conclusion

Well chosen, a flat-share opens the door to beautiful Paris homes. Poorly set up, it can cost the first person to leave dearly. Searching as a group and want a strong joint application? Book an appointment with APPARTE.

This article provides general information that is up to date at the time of publication. For your specific situation, have your rights checked by a professional (ADIL, lawyer or notary).