French Real Estate: Why are there mandatory diagnostic tests?

The French real estate diagnostic tests are to inform buyers and renters of the condition of the property they want to buy or rent. The tests required depend on the location of the property and the type of contract involved (sale versus renting).

The validity of the diagnostics varies with the type of diagnostic in question.

The diagnostics form a very important part of your buying or renting of a French property. It is important to seek professional advice to understand these documents. Speak with an English speaking French notary to find out what diagnostics you can expect to receive at this time.

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What year did they stop using asbestos amiante in French building construction?

Asbestos in French Properties

Asbestos is a microscopic mineral fiber used in buildings to insulate and to resist fire. Asbestos called ‘amiante’ in French has been prohibited from being used in building construction in France since the 1st of January 1997 because there is a risk of cancer for people who breath the dust of asbestos.

It is mandatory that all building built before July 1st 1997 in France are tested for asbestos.

Make sure you check to see the property you are buying does not contain asbestos.

If you have any concerns about the presence of asbestos in a French property you can consult a English speaking French notary or lawyer to obtain guidance.

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What diagnostic reports do I get when I buy a French property?

When you are buying a French property there are certain diagnostic reports attached to the contract of purchase and sale. In general as of this date these reports are as follows:

One

The measurement of surface of the French property according to the French legal measuring system for properties

Important note: at this time this is only required by law for French certain types of co-properties to be measured for their Loi Carrez. The loi carrez applies to apartments, commercial space and French houses in a residence (often called a domaine). If a house is in a housing development (lotissment) outside a domain the owner does not have to have the house legally measured. So buyers need to beware that a French house may not be the size its owners thinks it is. 

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Two

The test for the presence of asbestos in the French house or apartment you are buying.  This test is obligatory for French buildings built before the first of July 1997.

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Three

The test for the presence of termites in the French house or apartment you are buying.

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Four

The test for lead (plomb) in the French house or apartment. Lead may be present for example in beautiful old window frames in a French home.

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Five

The test for the energy efficiency of a French apartment or home plus  the presence of the emissions of gases. This is very valuable so you can estimate the cost of energy the French property will use each year.

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Six

The test for the presence of natural risks in the area the French property is located. Risk of flooding, earthquakes etc.

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Seven

The test for the gas system and its functionality and safety.

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Eight

The test of the condition of the Electrical system in the French apartment or house you are buying. Particularly, how it is related to current norms and standards and its level of safety.

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Nine

The test for the presence of Mérule which is referring to dry rot caused by a parasite that grows in a moist environment.

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Ten

If appropriate, you will need to get a report on the condition of the septic tank associated with your French property.

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Make sure you are current with all the details relating to diagnostics required during the sale of a French property. Contact your French Notary.

Date of Article June 2013 make sure you check with your English speaking French notary if there are additional reports you must get at the time you read this article since there are planned updates to the diagnostic reports.

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Note: Details on our 110 Tip electronic French real estate buyer’s guide plus checklists is here.