Seasonal rentals in France: questions and answers

• To make a reservation, please contact us via the feedback form on our website, by email at info@serviceazur.com, or by phone at +33 4 93 29 84 25.
• Our specialists will select a property that meets your criteria and expectations, prepare the documentation, and handle the rental agreement.
• We take care of all the organizational matters — all you need to do is enjoy your stay.

All villas, houses, and apartments featured on our website are subject to regular inspection by our team. We guarantee the accuracy of the photos and their correspondence to the actual condition of each property. To ensure full transparency, if you have the opportunity to visit the location, we will arrange a private viewing of the selected properties before the rental agreement is signed.

A representative of our company will meet you for an introduction to the rental property. During the meeting, a detailed inventory is carried out, and keys, garage remote controls, alarm codes, and everything necessary for comfortable living are handed over. Throughout the rental period, the tenant may contact their personal manager or our agency directly regarding any questions related to the property and their stay.

• Inventory inspection (French: état des lieux) is an official document drawn up at the beginning and end of the rental period. It provides a detailed record of the condition of the property and all its components.
• Its main purpose is to prevent potential disputes between the tenant and the landlord by offering an objective assessment of the property's condition at both check-in and check-out.
• The inventory must be completed in two copies — one for each party — and signed by both the landlord and the tenant. In case of disagreement, it serves as a key document for resolving conflicts.

On the day your rental period ends, a company representative conducts a final inspection of the property, collects the keys, and completes the check-out inventory report.
If needed, we can arrange airport transfers and ensure a smooth and comfortable departure.

The security deposit is an amount held by the agency for the duration of the rental and is used to cover any damage that tenants may cause to the furniture or equipment of the vacation home.

The amount of the security deposit is, on average, 25% to 30% of the total rent, the deposit is assigned by the owner, but kept in the account of the agency, which is the intermediary and guarantor between the owner and the tenant.

According to French law, the security deposit may be returned within up to two months after the end of the rental period.

However, if the check-out inventory matches the check-in report, there are no damages, and the owner confirms approval, the deposit may be returned on the day of departure or within a very short time frame.

 The exact return date is determined on a case-by-case basis and specified in the rental agreement.

Depending on the terms of the rental agreement, the following costs may be deducted from the security deposit: final cleaning, utilities consumed (water, electricity, gas), tourist tax, and the cost of any additional services provided during the tenant’s stay.

In case of damage or malfunctions, the cause is assessed. If the damage is due to the tenant’s fault, the cost of repairs is deducted from the deposit.

However, if the damage results from normal wear and tear under proper use, the responsibility lies with the owner and no deduction is made from the deposit.

The inclusion of bed linen and towels in the rental depends on the terms of the specific agreement. In some cases, they are included in the rental price; however, more often they are offered at an additional cost.

All details are discussed in advance and clearly specified in the rental contract.

Changing the rental dates is possible if the property is available for the requested period and the owner agrees.

All modifications are subject to individual approval and must be confirmed through an addendum to the rental agreement.

By contacting us :

• fill out the form,
• call us: +33 4 93 29 84 25,
• e-mail us: info@serviceazur.com,

Our rental managers will contact you shortly to set up a free consultation.

Next steps are:

• Listing the property: We conduct a professional photo shoot, prepare a compelling marketing description, analyze the market, and suggest the most competitive starting price

• Finding a tenant: We promote your property using advanced tools and a wide-reaching client database.

• Finalizing the deal: We coordinate and formalize the transaction, providing full support and protecting your interests at every stage.

More information on renting out your property

• In such cases, the security deposit mechanism applies. This deposit, typically amounting to 25–30% of the total rental price, is paid in advance by the tenant.
• If any damage is confirmed, the cost of repair or replacement is deducted from the deposit, based on the actual value of restoration.
• All actions are documented and carried out in strict accordance with the terms of the rental agreement.

Seasonal rental is the rental of a furnished apartment or house for a day, a week or a month. Usually, seasonal rental does not exceed a 3-month period. Rentals over 3 months are considered long- term furnished rentals.

To sign a rental agreement, the property owner must provide the following documents:

• Title deed (titre de propriété) — proof of ownership

• Valid identity document (passport or national ID)

• Certificate of tax residency (attestation de résidence fiscale), if applicable

• Technical reports and diagnostics (Dossier de Diagnostic Technique – DDT), including the energy performance certificate (DPE)

• Bank details for rental payments (Relevé d’Identité Bancaire – RIB)`
  
  

If the rental is managed through an agency, a mandate agreement (mandat de location) must also be signed, authorizing the agency to represent the owner's interests.

Yes, an inventory inspection (état des lieux) is a mandatory part of the rental process. It is prepared by the agency staff in the presence of the property owner before the tenant moves in, and again after the tenant moves out (état de sortie).

The document is attached to the rental agreement and includes a detailed description of the condition of the property and its contents at the time of handover.

A properly completed inventory serves as a guarantee for the protection of the owner's interests and allows for an objective assessment of any damage for potential compensation.

Yes, a property under mortgage can be rented out, provided that it is not prohibited by the terms of the loan agreement.

In many cases, banks allow rental, especially for seasonal or long-term leases, but some lending institutions may require prior notification or formal approval.

Before renting out a mortgaged property, it is strongly recommended to carefully review the mortgage terms and obtain the bank’s consent if necessary.

Yes, in France it is recommended to take out a special landlord insurance policy called PNO (Propriétaire Non Occupant) before renting out your property.

This type of insurance is designed for property owners who do not reside in the rental unit and provides coverage for risks such as property damage, fire, water leaks, civil liability, and other emergencies.

PNO insurance is a prudent precaution and, in some cases, may be required under the terms of a mortgage agreement or by the building's management company (syndic de copropriété).

• Take out property insurance — it is recommended to subscribe to a PNO (Propriétaire Non Occupant) policy, which provides coverage in case of unforeseen events
• Prepare a legally sound rental agreement — the contract must clearly define all rental terms and responsibilities of each party
• Collect the security deposit before the tenant’s arrival — the deposit ensures compensation for potential damages
• Create a detailed inventory of the property and its contents — the document must be signed by both parties at check-in and check-out. Our agency can handle this on your behalf

By following these measures, you ensure the security of the transaction and the protection of your property throughout the rental period.

The rental price is determined based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes the following factors:

• Location — proximity to the sea, infrastructure, and the prestige of the area
• Property type and size — villa, apartment, number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Condition and features — quality of renovation, presence of a pool, terrace, sea view, security systems, etc.
• Seasonality — rental prices on the French Riviera vary significantly depending on the time of year
• Market conditions — analysis of demand and current listings for comparable properties in your segment

The ideal time to book seasonal rentals is 4 to 6 months before your planned arrival. This is especially important during the high season (May–September), when demand for high-quality properties increases significantly.

Early booking provides:

• a wide selection of properties in your preferred location

• access to the best price-to-quality options

• the opportunity to arrange additional services in advance

Late booking is also possible, but availability may be limited, especially on peak dates.

Browse our collection of villas and apartments for rent on the French Riviera

• Space and privacy — enjoy an entire house or apartment exclusively, with no shared areas or other guests
• Flexibility and freedom — no restrictions on breakfast hours, guest visits, or how you use the space
• Tailored comfort — choose a property with a private pool, garden, sea-view terrace, staff, and all necessary amenities
• Cost-effective for families or groups — long stays or shared accommodation can be much more economical than hotels
• A “home away from home” — fully equipped kitchen, cozy interiors, and the ability to live at your own pace
• Authentic local experience — staying in a real home allows you to truly experience the culture and lifestyle of the Côte d’Azur, beyond what hotels can offer

The French Riviera offers a variety of prestigious resorts. The most sought-after destinations for luxury rentals include:

• Cannes — perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant social life, luxury boutiques, festivals, and proximity to the Croisette beaches
• Saint-Tropez — a symbol of luxury and elegance, favored by international elites and yachting enthusiasts
• Antibes and Cap d’Antibes — a refined blend of privacy and modern amenities, with excellent beaches and prestigious residences
• Nice — the cultural heart of the Riviera, offering a famous promenade, museums, and excellent transport connections
• Monaco and Cap d’Ail — ideal for those seeking exclusivity, security, and top-tier services
• Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat — among the most scenic and elite areas, featuring luxury villas and panoramic sea views
• Èze, Beausoleil, and La Turbie — perfect for nature lovers looking for peace, elevation, and breathtaking views of the coastline

Browse our curated selection of villas and apartments for rent on the French Riviera

The cost of renting a property on the Côte d'Azur varies considerably and depends on factors such as the property's location, its distance from the sea and, of course, the desired time of year.

For example, the average cost of renting villas on the French Riviera in the high season is 10-12nbsp;th €  a week. Apartments will cost about 3-4 € thousand per week.