How can I find a reliable electrician in France?

Reader question: Do you have any advice on how to source a registered electrician for a property in Charente?

One of the best ways to find a trustworthy electrician is through word of mouth, if you have neighbours who can recommend a local artisan (tradesperson).

Otherwise, there are websites where you can find tradespeople in your area, including the yellow pages (pagesjaunes.fr), izi-by-edf.fr from EDF, and travaux.com.

You can narrow down your search by looking for specific qualifications and accreditations.

One to look out for is Qualifelec.

This is a voluntary quality label obtained after an independent body vets the professional’s skill and experience.

This includes qualifications for different specialisms, including electric heating and renewable energy.

You can search for a qualified professional at qualifelec.fr.

Another label that can be useful is RGE (reconnu garant de l’environnement), which relates to tradespeople with skills linked to energy-efficiency renovations.

For example, if you want to apply for a MaPrimeRénov’ grant for energy renovations, you will need to hire someone with this.

Even if this is not your case, the label might still provide reassurance.

Find RGE-qualified electricians at france-renov.gouv.fr/annuaire-rge.

There are other steps you can take once you have identified an electrician to ensure you will not be in for a nasty surprise further down the line.

You should ask for proof they have obligatory assurance décennale insurance for any material damage arising linked to faults in the work.

Energy firm Engie warns consumers not to fall into common traps, such as trusting flyers placed in the letterbox or the first results that appear on a search engine.

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