Scams, ID checks, waste tax: French practical round up

Exemptions for rubbish collection tax

This article goes over the rules of the ‘TEOM’ waste collection tax, which is levied in many communes in France and is closely tied to taxe foncière bills.

Whilst exemption from the tax are more common for public service building, some private residences can benefit from partial or total reductions.

We go over the possible routes for exemption.

Read more: Rubbish collection tax in France: what exemptions exist?

List of medicines to avoid published

The annual list of medicines that are considered ‘more dangerous than useful’ has been published by respected medical review Prescrire.

Over 100 medicines are listed, 88 of which can still be found available in France, including common cough syrups and antibiotic pills.

The list also warns of new drugs they deem dangerous, and not just those already well-established on the market.

Read more: ‘Medicines to avoid in 2024’ list published by French medical review

More scams to watch out for

Residents of the Lot and neighbouring departments have been warned to stay on the look out for fake €20 and €50 banknotes.

Local gendarmes have caught fraudsters using the fake notes to pay for goods on online auctions sites. Our article provides tips on how to check if a banknote is authentic.

A second article this week looks at the rise of scammers posing as police officers and other tradespeople to gain entrance to homes.

Read more: €50 fake notes circulating in south-west France: how to spot one

Read more: Fake police, electricians, workers: alert over rise in scams in France

What classes as valid ID for visitors to France?

A recent report stated that over 47 million ID checks are carried out annually by French law enforcement. We look at what residents and visitors can use as valid ID, as well as comparing some of the conflicting information online.

Read more: 128,000 identity checks a day in France: what must foreigners show?

How to find a guarantor

One thing many looking to rent a property for the long-term in France find frustrating is the ‘guarantor’ process. Renters need to provide a guarantor – usually a French person – who promises the landlord to pay rent in cases where the tenant cannot, or does not, pay.

We look at how the process works, as well as some tips for those who may not have a guarantor lined up, as certain services – including a free one from the government – can be used.

Read more: Explainer: how to find a guarantor so as to rent a flat in France