Rentals

Rent controls: the ceiling on increases is extended until July 31, 2027

Publié le 27 juillet 2026 - Public Service / (Prime Minister)

The scheme which limits rent increases in municipalities classified as « tense areas » is renewed for one year. A decree of July 20, 2026 extends the regulation of the evolution of certain rents when renting or renewing a lease. But in some municipalities in a tight area, such as Paris, Bordeaux and Montpellier, a rent control also applies. Public Service explains.

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A framework for the evolution of rents

In most municipalities in the « tense zone », the increase in rents is regulated. Landlords must follow special rules when renting a home or renewing a lease. The amount of rent cannot be increased freely and can only change in certain cases provided for by the regulations.

The decree of 20 July 2026 this device of the 1er August 2026 to July 31, 2027. It concerns empty or furnished rented dwellings located in municipalities classified as tense areas.

In the event of relocation (change of tenant) or renewal of the lease, the landlord can only increase the rent in certain cases, for example when certain works have been made in the dwelling.

You can find all the modalities of this device on our practical sheet « What is the rent control to be respected in a tense area? » (tab « Tense area »).

A framework for the level of rents

In addition to this system, in certain municipalities in a stretched area, the regulation of the level of rents. This is particularly the case in Paris, Bordeaux and Montpellier, where reference rents are set by prefectural decree and updated each year. The new reference rents applicable in 2026 entered into force on 1er July in Paris and Montpellier and the 15 July in Bordeaux.

Three levels of rent are defined:

  • one reference rent (median rent);
  • one reference rent increased (20 % higher);
  • one reference rent reduced (30% lower).

Each year, a prefectural decree sets in particular increased reference rents, i.e. the amounts of rent per square meter not to be exceeded.

However, where the dwelling has special characteristics, a rent supplement may be provided for in the lease. This supplement has the effect of raising the rent of the housing above the reference rent increased.

The basic rent (excluding charges and rent supplement) must not exceed the reference rent increased in force on the date of signing of the lease.

These different amounts must be mentioned in the lease and in the real estate listing.

FYI  

Not all types of dwellings are covered by the rent framework. Some are subject to other rules, including:

Please note

A distinction must be made between the rules governing the development of rents (applicable in most municipalities in a stretched area) and the regulation of the level of rents (applicable in municipalities in stretched areas with an annual prefectural decree).

The second system was introduced on an experimental basis by the law on the development of housing, development and digital technology (Elan). In the municipalities concerned, the amount of rent per square meter may not exceed a ceiling set each year by the prefectural decree in force.

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