Inside or outside a university residence, with or without roommates, from a private landlord or a private letting agency... there are differents ways to find an accomodation in France.
As a tenant, you are liable for any damage caused to the accommodation during the term of the lease. You must therefore repair any damage caused. For this reason, in most cases, the law requires you to take out insurance to cover these risks, known as "tenant's risks".
Having a student sponsor, or buddy, in France can be very useful in helping you get settled in when you arrive in France or even to before your departure. It's also an excellent way to meet other students.