France's New Vacant Housing Tax: Hundreds of Euros in Penalties

France Implements New Law to Combat Housing Crisis: Vacant Properties to Face Tax Penalties France is taking a new step to address its housing crisis. Starting August 18, 2025, a law will automatically classify residences with unused internet boxes for 60 days as vacant. This will trigger the application of the tax on vacant housing (TLV), potentially costing homeowners hundreds of euros annually. The measure aims to identify and bring back into use underutilized properties. "This new rule could directly impact homeowners, absent tenants, or those who share multiple residences," explains a recent video discussing the law. The video highlights the automated nature of the process, with internet providers transmitting data to a government platform. However, the video also notes that justified absences can be declared online to prevent misclassification. This declaration process is crucial for those who may be temporarily away from their residence. The initiative, according to BFM TV and the Ministry of Ecological Transition, seeks to combat the housing shortage and encourage the return of vacant properties to the rental market. The law represents a significant change in how France manages its housing stock and could have far-reaching consequences for property owners and renters alike.