Frequently Asked Questions

Finding suitable accommodation is essential when planning your move to Fontainebleau. If it is your first time away from home, you want to be sure you can complete your studies in the best conditions. So, getting access to comfortable, affordable student accommodation can contribute to your success as a student. That’s where Fonty Housing can help. It’s hard to describe what sets us apart from the rest unless you have already experienced it as one of our clients. In a nutshell, we make renting easy…so you can make living easier!

Your ideal home

The types of properties available in Fontainebleau are many and varied and include studios, apartments, shared houses, etc. We have several options that should meet your specific housing requirements and suit your personal situation.
To help you with your search to find the perfect property, we have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions. Hopefully, you will find the answers to all your Fontainebleau housing questions. If not, please get in touch, and we will do our best to help.

Q. Who is Fonty Housing?

Fonty Housing is your dedicated partner in the quest for the perfect Fontainebleau student housing experience. We started with a precise mission: to assist and support INSEAD students in finding their ideal home in this fascinating French town. By providing personalised solutions to align with your unique INSEAD student requirements, we ensure your housing needs are fulfilled with the utmost care and consideration. To make your move to Fontainebleau as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we provide a range of housing options as well as dedicated support throughout your stay.

Q. What’s the difference between a studio apartment and a 1 bedroom apartment?

The main difference between a studio apartment and a one-bedroom apartment lies in their layout and division of living space. Here’s our breakdown of each apartment type :

• Studio Apartment is a single, self-contained unit typically of one open plan space. So there are no walls or partitions separating the various living areas. In a studio apartment, the different areas – living room, bedroom and kitchen – are integrated into one larger space. Typically, the bathroom is the only separate room, with its own enclosed space. There are no separate bedrooms, and the entire apartment is usually more compact. Studio apartments are ideal for individuals or couples who prefer minimalistic living and don’t need much space or privacy.
• One-Bedroom Apartments are designed to have a clear separation between the bedroom and living area. These apartments usually have a separate bedroom, a distinct living room, a kitchen and a private bathroom. Generally, the bedroom is enclosed by walls and a door, to provide privacy and separation from the rest of the living space. One-bedroom apartments are more suitable for individuals or couples who desire more space and privacy than a studio apartment offers.

In summary, the main difference between a studio apartment and a one-bedroom apartment is the presence of separate, enclosed sleeping quarters in a one-bedroom apartment. A studio apartment combines the living, sleeping, and kitchen spaces into one open area. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences, lifestyle, budget and the need for space and privacy.

Q. Is the rent negotiable?

The monthly rental rate is determined solely by the landlord and therefore not open to negotiation.

Q. When will I get my deposit back?

This is probably one of the most asked questions. 

At the end of your tenancy, to ensure the seamless return of your deposit, the apartment should be in the same condition as when you first moved in. We appreciate that last-minute cleaning and packing can be challenging, so we strongly advise using a cleaning service every two weeks. This will help maintain the apartment’s cleanliness and prevent any build-up of dirt and limescale.
Generally, you can expect the return of your deposit within the legal timeframe of two months following your departure. However, we do our best to speed up this process whenever possible. We work closely with homeowners to ensure your deposit is refunded in a few weeks. Fonty Housing are here to assist you throughout this process. So you enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a swift resolution.

Q. What are the Provisional Charges?

‘Provisional charges’, in the context of your property rental agreement, include a specific quantity of electricity and/or gas that are factored into your rental fee. These charges serve as an initial allocation for your utility usage.

How it works: If, during your stay, the actual electricity or gas consumption exceeds the provisional amount included in your rent, the additional cost will be deducted from your deposit. And vice versa, if your actual consumption is less than the provisional amount, you will receive a refund for the unused portion.

This approach helps ensure you are accurately billed for the utilities used during your tenancy, maintaining transparency and fairness in the rental process.

Q. Can I sublet my apartment or room?

Yes, it is possible to sublet your room or apartment, but only with the explicit consent of the landlord. It is important to note that subletting without the landlord’s permission is illegal in France. If you decide you want to sublet, please let us know. We can provide guidance to both you and your landlord. Additionally, we can help find a suitable subtenant to ensure a smooth and legally compliant subleasing process. 

We offer a wide selection of rental properties for all styles and budgets. So if you haven’t already found something you like, we’re here to help.