Refusal to Renew a Lease

Practical application:

Based on the 1987 Court of Cassation decision, Sophie can combine the refusal to renew and the formal notice in a single registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt. This saves time and postage while fully satisfying legal requirements. She must clearly state her intention not to renew, the reason (own use), and the formal notice giving the tenant 2 years (or as per lease) to vacate. Send it at least 6 months before lease end to avoid automatic renewal.

Practical application:

The case law confirms that a refusal to renew and the formal notice can be in the same document, so the notice Marc received is legally valid. He should not ignore it, but respond by acknowledging receipt and start planning relocation. The combined notice starts the clock for his right to contest the refusal (within 2 years) and for claiming eviction compensation (indemnité d'éviction). Marc should consult a lawyer to verify if the refusal grounds are legitimate and to negotiate a fair compensation for the loss of his business.

Practical application:

Lucie can rely on this jurisprudence to draft a single letter serving both as formal refusal of renewal and as the required notice to vacate. This reduces administrative steps and the risk of sending contradictory documents. She should include the exact lease reference, the legal basis (Article 9 of the 1953 decree), and specify the 2-year notice period. Sending it via huissier (bailiff) adds an extra layer of proof. She can now advise all clients that this combined approach is court-tested and safe.