Paris Rental Glossary

The Parisian rental lexicon can be charming, baffling or scary, depending on your position. It certainly takes a little getting used to. For furtyher real estate terms have a look at our comprehensive glossary.

“American Kitchen” or” Cuisine Americaine”
Equipped kitchen and dining room which is open onto the living room. We're still not sure how it gained this moniker, but we've grown to love it.

Dépot de Garantie
The deposit on an apartment rental requested by the owner to cover any breakages or damage to their apartment. Normally 2 month’s rent in Paris, often one month if you book via Bonapart Consulting because we make an effort to negotiate less for you. By law the owner does not have to return this to you until 2 months after the date you move out (giving them time to assess any damage you have done or bills left unpaid). In reality most reasonable owners (and certainly all of those that Bonapart work with) will be happy to hand it over immediately on moving out after checking the apartment with you on your last day and following the last bill received if there were utilities included in the monthly rent.

Cave
Cellar - handy for storing extra gear, bikes, suitacases etc.........as well as it's traditional use, for wine. To establish your collection in the Parisian cave, make sure it is far away from any heat source, vibration (Le Métro!) or strong odours (like fuel). Insulation and humidity are primary considerations. The drier the cave, the faster the corks will dry out. If the stopper lets too much air pass, it will ultimately spoil the wine. Aging wines for ten years requires a minimum of 60 percent humidity.

Etat des Lieux & Inventaire
Literally the “state of the place” which is a check made between yourself and the landlord to agree on the condition of different parts of the apartment such as the walls, etc. Basically this is to protect you so that you are not blamed for a streak on the paintwork that you are not responsible for when you move out. The Inventaire is the inventory of items in the apartment when you move in – the number of glasses, TV, stereo etc.

Floor System
Ground floor is known as Rez de Chausee. After going up the first flight of stairs you arrive at the 1st floor and so on.

Gardien/Gardienne
The lady or gentleman who lives in your building and takes care of all the cleaning common parts, post, delivery of parcels – an important person to have on your side. They generally know all the important information about your building, the inhabitants and the neighbourhood. Make yourself known to them and a little present now and again will make your life 100% easier.

Parquet/Moquette
Wooden floors/wall to wall carpet

Pièce
A room. A one bedroom apartment is a “2 pièce” – it has two rooms, a bedroom and sitting room. A 3 pièce is a two bedroom apartment, and so on.

Quittance de Loyer
A receipt for your rent – you should keep these as they are often required as proof of address when you need this for something official. And to prove you've been a good tenant and been paying your rent!