Property inspections
Key Information for Buying a Home in France
Everything You Need to Know About Property Inspections
Property surveys (diagnostics immobiliers) play a crucial role in the real estate process, especially when buying a home in France. They provide important insights into the state of the property, helping buyers and tenants make informed decisions. However, it should be noted that this not the same as a full structural survey which is common in the UK. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these essential property inspections in an easy-to-understand way.
why property inspections are essential
When a homeowner decides to sell or rent a property in France, they are required by law to carry out specific property inspections. These reports ensure transparency and offer crucial details about key aspects of the property, including safety, health risks, energy efficiency, and potential hazards. While these inspections are mandatory, they are primarily informative. The seller is not obligated to fix any issues found—leaving it up to the buyer to evaluate the findings and decide whether or not to proceed.
the key property surveys in france
Here’s a breakdown of the most common property inspections and what they cover:
Energy Performance Certificate (DPE)
Applicable to: All properties offered for sale or rent.
Purpose: To evaluate energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Validity: 10 years, except for DPEs conducted between 2013 and 2021, which expire sooner.
Energy audit
Applicable to: Properties with a rating of E or lower
Purpose: To conduct more in-depth inspections on energy usage and propose renovation solutions
Validity: 5 years
Gas and electrical inspections
Applicable to: Installations over 15 years old.
Purpose: Ensure the safety and proper functioning of gas and electrical systems.
Validity: 3 years for both inspections.
Lead-Based Paint (CREP) Inspection
Applicable to: Properties built before 1949.
Purpose: To identify lead-based paint, which can be harmful to health, especially for children.
Validity: Unlimited if no lead is detected. / 1 year if lead is present.
Asbestos inspection
Applicable to: Properties built before 1997.
Purpose: To detect asbestos-containing materials, which can pose health risks when deteriorated.
Validity: Unlimited if no asbestos is found / 3 years if asbestos is detected.
Termites inspection
Applicable to: Areas known to be infested with termites.
Purpose: Termites can damage wooden structures, posing risks to property integrity.
Validity: 6 months.
Natural and Technological Risks Assessment (ERNT)
Applicable to: Locations prone to seismic activity, radon exposure, or pollution.
Purpose: To assess potential environmental hazards.
Validity: 6 months.
Non collective Sanitation inspection
Applicable to: Properties not connected to the public sewer system.
Purpose: Ensure the proper functioning of autonomous sewage systems.
Wood decay (mérule)
Applicable to: Properties located in regions affected by wood-destroying fungi.
Noise pollution inspection
Applicable to: Properties near airports or high-nose zones.
Carrez Law measurement
Applicable to: To accurately measure and confirm the private living space in co-owned properties.
who pays for property inspections?
In France, it is the seller’s responsibility to cover the cost of property inspections. A certified inspector must be hired to carry out these assessments. However, as a buyer, you can choose to pay for additional inspections or a full survey if you wish to delve deeper into specific areas.
What to Do After Receiving Property Inspection Reports?
Carefully review the inspection reports provided by the seller. These documents will offer a clear picture of potential issues or required renovations. Understanding these findings allows you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or negotiate further.
questions about property inspections?
Need advice or further information? Feel free to contact us for assistance with your property inspection queries. Property inspections are designed to ensure you make a confident investment when buying a home in France, whether for personal use or as part of a relocation agency’s services.
