Facade renovation for our home in France
We have been told it is a legal requirement to “upgrade” the facade of our home in France every 15 years. Is this right?
In fact, France’s Building and Housing Code (article 132-1) recommends updating the facade every 10 years – and local authorities can order work to be carried out if a facade has been left untended for too long.
Anyone who ignores an order risks a fine of €3,750.
With any such work, it is advisable to use a professional, who can diagnose related issues and recommend solutions.
As always, depending on the nature of work (protection, renovation, insulation), the cost and time will vary and it is important to agree and sign a quote (with a timeframe) before any work begins.
In general terms, the work involves scaffolding installation, followed by manual or mechanical cleaning and appropriate renovation.
The facade artisan works on the masonry, in stone or concrete. The finishing phase consists of applying paint and, if necessary, shaping decorations.
Finally, walls are waterproofed with a water-repellent treatment or a lime- based whitewash.
Since January 2017, it has been obligatory to undertake necessary insulation work at the same time.
You must make a prior declaration of work if your home is in a listed or classified site or near a historical monument, or if the municipality requires it.
Question answered by Sarah Bright-Thomas of Bright Avocats
Tel: 05 61 57 90 86 -www.brightavocats.com - contact@brightavocats.com
