Mamie Rose owns a large house with a garden. Her children live on the other side of France. She'd like to supplement her small pension and have some company. As for Charline, she's about to start university and is looking for a room to rent. Why not give intergenerational sharing a try?
Mamie Rose
I'm 75. Can I rent a room in my house to a student?
We could talk about intergenerational cohabitation rather than shared accommodation. Article 117 of the ELAN law (the French law on the evolution of housing, development and the digital economy) has given a legal framework to this process, allowing a senior citizen (over 60) with a vacant room to "rent" or "sublet" it to a young person under 30. In this way, Mamie Rose could offer her available room to Charline. The age condition is respected: the young person must be under 30 and the senior over 60. The room must be in the person's main residence.
Charline
What are the rules for renting?
Please note that this is not a lease governed by the law of 6/07/89 on rental relationships. This "arrangement" is a contract within the meaning of the French Civil Code, and is subject to articles 1101 to 1231 of the Code civil. It must also contain specific provisions. Some aspects are therefore non-negotiable: the size of the room, for example, which must be at least 9 m2, and free access to the kitchen and bathroom facilities. A ministerial decree is expected to define a charter for intergenerational cohabitation in the near future.
Mamie Rose
How do I set the rent?
With this formula, you have the possibility, in return for the accommodation, to claim a "rent" and/or services rendered. And that's what makes it so interesting for the senior citizen. The young person can provide you with services such as shopping, cleaning, administrative tasks... Mamie Rose and Charline could agree on the following principle: the more services you provide, the less "rent" you'll have to pay. It's a win-win situation!
"This intergenerational sharing of accommodation means you can claim a "rent" that's 20% cheaper than the market price of property rental. "
Charline
Is it possible to make a short-term commitment?
Rest assured, it's up to the two parties to decide on the duration of the contract. This system has the advantage of being flexible, as you can terminate it at any time, with one month's notice and without giving any reason. To access this type of contract, you can go through certain associations which offer to sign a moral charter.
Mamie Rose
What's in it for me?
This system obviously helps to combat the isolation of the elderly. As Mamie Rose's children live far away, it seems like a good solution to have a student share her house, daily chores and, above all, her life. Beyond the financial aspect, it's the human side that will make all the difference. The contact with a younger person will certainly help Mamie Rose to keep her "good footing"!
Stéphanie SWIKLINSKI