Inventory of Fixtures: What to Know Before You Sign
Whether at move-in or move-out, the inventory of fixtures determines what you will — or won't — have to pay. Here's how to avoid the most common pitfalls.
You're never obligated to sign
Once signed, the inventory counts as agreement to its content — which is why it's important to read it carefully before signing. If you disagree with what's written:
- Write your comments directly on the document, item by item ("contested," "already in this state at move-in," "normal wear"...). Be precise, it avoids interpretation disputes later.
- Never acknowledge a precise amount, even presented as "indicative" or "approximate" — this figure can later be used against you.
- If the document doesn't reflect reality and the property manager refuses to include your comments, don't sign it.
Refusing to sign is never a problem for you — it simply obliges the landlord to prove the defects they attribute to you themselves.
Without a move-in inventory, it's up to the landlord to prove
Since 1990, the law states that if no written move-in inventory was made, it's up to the landlord to prove, at your departure, that the property was in good condition when you arrived. Without proof, you owe nothing for defects found at move-out.
Damages are never charged at 100%
Even in cases of proven damage on your part, you never reimburse the full repair bill: normal wear must be deducted, calculated from the date of the last work done (not from the start of your lease). Concrete example: the lifespan of wallpaper is estimated at 10 years. If you leave after 8 years with damaged walls, you only owe 20% of the restoration bill.
The landlord must report defects immediately
At move-out, the landlord must point out any defects on the spot, or within the following days. A delay of one week is already considered late — past this, you owe nothing more for these defects.
Defect discovered after signing: you have one year
If you realize afterward that you were misled about a signed inventory, you can invalidate your agreement for error by sending a registered letter to the landlord — within one year. You must act before paying the requested amount.
Our practical advice
- Request that the inventory be done during the day, in an empty property, for optimal visibility of defects.
- Take your own dated photos, in addition to the official document.
- Keep a signed copy for yourself — it's a contractual document, part of your lease.