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 In France 'English type' Surveys are almost unknown. There is not even a word for 'Surveyor'! The nearest being 'Expert de Batiment' or 'Maitre d'Oeuvre'.
There is however, a legal requirement for a vendor of a property to provide the purchaser (and the Notaire) with a Report identifying the presence of Asbestos in the property, and in some areas also the presence of lead in paint, and in the South of the Country the presence of Termites. This last point is generally extended to other parts of the country to include all parasites.
Since November 2006 a report will also comment on energy consumption in the house.
This report is to be extended in the future to include Septic tanks and electrical safety.
Specialist Companies carry out these Reports (written in French) as they have the specific equipment to carry out the required tests. These Companies do not do 'English type' surveys, they are not looking at the general structural stability of the building, nor currently at any of the other Services such as water, gas or electricity.
Would you buy a 5 year old car without a Garage Report or an MoT? - No!
So why when you are buying your 'Dream House in France' would you consider buying a house without a specialist Report on its condition, which will identify defects which may need attention? Those defects could cost a lot of money to repair and turn your dream into a Nightmare!
We will spend at least 4 to 5 hours looking at a property, and have the experience to spot faults which you may miss during your usually shorter visit(s).
Too many Dreams turn out to be Money Pits!
Contact Wellesley House Surveying
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