Sophia Antipolis - Renting a house

It is very difficult to rent a house or a flat around Sophia-Antipolis. Demands are higher than offers and prices are very high. You can rent through an agency or directly from a landlord. Through an agency, you will have to pay a fee (honoraries) to cover the agent's costs and for the administration. The costs should correspond to 2 months' rent.

You will have to sign a lease (bail) for the rental period. It is a written contract, usually prepared for a lease period of 3 years. If you want to terminate the agreement before the end of this period, it is necessary to give 3 months' notice. The period can be reduced to one month if you are transferred for work reasons or if you lose your job.

An inventory is drawn up. It describes the state of the property, listing any damage. You have to do this inventory when you move in to the apartment as well as when you leave. This document must be signed by both parties to make it valid.

Don't pay anything until you have the signed contract and then pay by cheque and ask for a signed and dated receipt (quittance de loyer).

Make sure the monthly rent  includes all charges and that no additional costs are written in small print somewhere or are quoted separately.