Published on 15 October 2026, the reference rent index (IRL) for Q3 2026 stands at 148.06 in mainland France, a rise of 1.57% year on year. If you are a landlord, you may revise the rent of your property within this limit, provided that the revision clause appears in the lease and that the anniversary date has passed.
This index applies to unfurnished or furnished rentals used as a principal residence. For owners considering selling a rented property, it also gives an indication of how rental income is changing and may influence the valuation of the property.
An index published every quarter
The IRL is published by Insee and serves as the ceiling for the annual revision of rents. It is calculated from changes in consumer prices excluding tobacco and excluding rents over the previous twelve months. The official Service-Public page states that this revision cannot exceed the change in the index between the reference quarter and the same quarter of the previous year.
For Q3 2026, the mainland index rises from 145.77 to 148.06. The 1.57% rise is therefore the maximum annual increase for leases that provide for it.
Who can revise their rent and when?
A revision is possible only if the rental contract contains a revision clause. It takes place on the date provided for in the lease or, failing that, on the anniversary date of the contract. You cannot apply several revisions in the same year, nor catch up on an increase that was not applied.
- Properties concerned: unfurnished or furnished rental used as a principal residence.
- Condition: revision clause written into the lease.
- Date: anniversary date or the date stated in the contract.
- Ceiling: change in the IRL over one year, i.e. 1.57% for this quarter.
If your lease does not include a revision clause, the rent remains unchanged for the entire duration of the lease.
A simple calculation example
Take a monthly rent of €900 excluding charges. The previous applicable index was that of Q3 2025 (145.77). The new maximum rent is calculated as follows:
900 € × (148,06 ÷ 145,77) = 914,63 €.
The rent can therefore rise to a maximum of €914.63, an increase of €14.63 per month. Round to the nearest cent.
What this means for a seller-landlord
If you are considering selling a property that is currently rented, the publication of the IRL may be an opportunity to adjust the rent before putting it on the market. A rent updated to market price improves the property's appeal to an investor and can strengthen your case at the valuation stage. Our page on wealth valuation sets out the factors to take into account.
For properties located in Annecy and the French Genevois area, rental pressure remains high. A regularly revised rent is a positive signal for buyers wishing to invest.
Frequently asked questions
Can I increase the rent if the lease does not contain a revision clause?
No. Without a revision clause, the rent is fixed for the entire duration of the lease, unless it is renewed or a new lease is concluded.
Does the 1.57% rise apply automatically?
No. You must apply the revision on the date provided for, but you may choose not to apply it or to apply a smaller increase. You can never exceed 1.57%.
Does this index apply to furnished tourist rentals?
No. The IRL applies to principal-residence leases. Seasonal or furnished tourist rentals are subject to other rules.
Where can I find the official index?
The Service-Public page presents the index and how it has changed. Insee also publishes the full IRL series.
In summary
The Q3 2026 IRL allows a rent increase capped at 1.57% for leases with a revision clause. If you are a landlord, check your lease and the application date. If you are selling, take the opportunity to update the rent where possible. For any question about the valuation of your property, you can value your property online or for the French Genevois area.