-
How does French property tax relief work based on household income?
Eligibility for relief from the taxe foncière is assessed with reference to your family quotient parts
-
What is the difference between carte de séjour and carte de résident?
These are the two main categories of French residency card, or what is known broadly in French as un titre de séjour
-
What are France’s Mon Espace Santé and Dossier Medical Partagé?
Health databases can be checked by patients and professionals
France lockdown: Are DIY shops still open?
DIY shops were open during France's first lockdown in spring - and are on the list of essential business which can stay open this time too
Reader question: Now that we are under confinement, I thought I would do some DIY. Will I be able to get the materials?
Short answer: Yes.
DIY shops have made it onto the list of essential businesses and so will remain open.
"All the material and tool shops will remain open, including for private individuals - I'm thinking of Point P, Leroy Merlin, Bricorama, etc.," France's finance minister Bruno Le Maire said in a speech on October 29.
This means customers can visit the shops - providing they respect barrier gestures and wear a mask. Equally, delivery and click & collect services will continue.
Anyone needing to buy tools, equipment or materials is advised to use online delivery services or click & collect services where possible to reduce person-to-person contact.
Opening hours may vary depending on the shop, so customers should check before going.
If you go to a DIY shop, you will need to fill out an exemption certificate (attestation de déplacement). It is recommended that you check the second box: “Déplacements pour effectuer des achats de fournitures nécessaires à l'activité professionnelle, des achats de première nécessité, des retraits de commandes et des livraisons à domicile".
France lockdown: The exemption forms you need
Mr Le Maire also confirmed that mairies will remain open in order to process and grant building permits. Garden centres will also remain open.
Advertisement
Clarifications on the current lockdown are still being issued by the government so be aware that details may change. You can stay informed by regularly checking this website and signing up for our free newsletters (sent three times a week).
