Winter truce suspends evictions but not debts

A legal measure known as the winter truce, active from November 1 to March 31 each year, prevents physical evictions of tenants. However, it does not stop rent payments from being added to outstanding debt or halt legal procedures against tenants.

Debts continue to grow during the truce

During the five-month truce, any unpaid rent is added to the tenant’s existing debt. If a tenant owes 3,000 euros in October and pays nothing during the truce, they could owe 7,500 euros by April if their monthly rent is 900 euros. Interest and legal fees continue to increase the debt.

Legal processes proceed normally

Although evictions are paused, landlords can still send payment demands, take tenants to court, and obtain eviction orders. A notice to vacate issued in November will take effect in April, as the two-month waiting period between notice and enforcement is respected. Court cases continue without interruption.

End of the truce brings a wave of evictions

April 1 marks the end of the winter truce, after which all frozen eviction cases can proceed simultaneously. In 2025, the number of residential evictions reached a record high following a law that made it easier to evict squatters. Social services expect another large increase in evictions in the spring of 2027.

Energy providers have limited protections

During the truce, electricity, gas, and heating providers cannot cut off services for non-payment in a primary residence. However, they may reduce power supply for households with higher capacity meters. Eligible households receiving an energy check are protected from such reductions, making it important to inform providers of their status before November 1.

Critical period before the truce begins

The ten days before November 1 are crucial for tenants facing eviction. They must act quickly to challenge payment demands, request payment extensions, or negotiate with landlords. After November 1, legal processes continue without the tenant being able to track their progress. Landlords often start procedures in October to gain an advantage in the judicial timeline.