Client's Question:    Although I understand that certain aspects of a property’s condition will be covered in the ‘diagnostique’ reports, such as the presence of lead and asbestos, will they also provide information on the structural condition of a property? 

Answer: The "diagnostiques" cover the following:

Lead

Asbestos

Gas and electrical installations

Termites

Energy efficiency

Natural Risks

Drainage System 

They will not therefore cover the structural condition of a property. Surveys are not carried out in France in the same way they are in the U.K, and the role does not exist in the buying process. If there is concern over a particular aspect of a house, say the roof or the external walls then the potential buyer consults a local artisan who is a specialist in the given area, so in the above case a roofer and a stone mason. They will then give their opinions as to any possible work that may be required and the cost of carrying that work out.

That said, there are a number of British surveyors operating in France, and you are of course free to appoint one should you wish to do so.

Blog submitted by: Alex at Cle France.