Property diagnostics first appeared on the French scene over 25 years ago. An essential part of any property transaction, the task of obtaining them can sometimes seem tedious. However, their role is essential: they were set up to protect the safety of people, property and the environment by providing information on the condition of a property. It’s therefore impossible to ignore the DDT (dossier de diagnostic technique) when you take on the role of buyer or purchaser. Let us guide you through the process so that this essential element of any transaction is no more than a formality.

What are the main property diagnostics?

There are quite a few in France, but for the sake of clarity, they can be grouped into several broad categories.

Technical diagnostics relating to public health

Concerning asbestos

The presence or absence of asbestos in a dwelling is always a major public health issue. This diagnostic determines the presence or absence of asbestos-containing materials or products in your home.

The Crep or Lead Exposure Risk Report

This provides information on the presence of lead in homes. In most cases, this concerns lead paint, which was very common in the past, but also lead wallpaper or lead sheeting, which was used to limit dampness.

Technical diagnostics relating to the safety of property and persons

ERP

This acronym stands for the document that provides information on the risks to which the property is exposed. These include natural, mining, technological and seismic risks, radon levels, etc.

The condition of the internal gas and electricity installations

More commonly known as an electricity and gas diagnostic, this provides an overview of the safety of the electrical and gas installations in the home.

Technical diagnostics related to sustainable development

DPE

This is the energy performance assessment. This is a document primarily designed to estimate the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of a dwelling.

Special cases

State of non-collective sanitation: for dwellings not connected to the public sewerage network.

PEMD or waste diagnosis: mandatory for demolition, but also for building renovation.

Technical diagnostics relating to the decency of dwellings

Carrez Law

This is a law that requires all home sellers to provide accurate measurements of private areas. These measurements can be carried out by a non-professional.

Airport noise diagnostics

A noise diagnostics is a compulsory document for any sale of property in an airport noise zone.

Termites and other wood-eating insects in high-risk areas

A termite diagnostic provides information on the presence or absence of wood-eating insects – insects that eat wood and cellulose-containing materials.

Not mandatory: « mérule » diagnostic

Recommended in cases of suspicion, this test detects the presence of « mérule » in a dwelling. This is a wood-eating fungus that thrives in damp conditions.

Property diagnostics: house or apartment, what documents should you provide?

Depending on whether the property is a house or an apartment, the list of reports you need to provide is not exactly the same.

If the property is a detached house, the vendor must provide the following documents:

  • Energy Performance Diagnostic Report
  • Lead risk report
  • A report on the presence or absence of asbestos
  • A statement of internal electrical installations if the property is more than 15 years old.
  • Internal gas installation statement, if more than 15 years old
  • Condition of non-communal sanitary installations
  • Report on the presence of termites
  • Risk assessment
  • Noise diagnostic
  • Energy audit if the property is classified F or G on the DPE

For new dwellings for which planning permission or a prior declaration has been submitted since 1 January 2023, or for existing dwellings which have undergone renovation work with a direct impact on their energy performance since that date, the vendor must provide the Home Information Leaflet (CIL).

If a geographical area has been identified: indicate whether there is a risk of « mérule ».

If the transaction involves a dwelling, the vendor must provide a:

  • Energy Performance Diagnosis
  • Lead Exposure Risk Report
  • A statement indicating the presence or absence of asbestos
  • An inspection of the electrical wiring if more than 15 years old
  • A statement of the internal gas installation if more than 15 years old
  • Condition of non-domestic plumbing
  • Report on the presence of termites
  • Risk assessment
  • Noise diagnostic
  • Housing Information Leaflet (CIL)

If a geographical area has been identified, indicate whether there is a risk of « mérule ».

The promise to sell or deed of sale must contain the following information

Measurement of the private area of the shared property (Carrez law).

Important information

Period of validity

The period of validity of each certificate varies.

  • Unlimited for the Carrez law and lead.
  • 10 years for the DPE.
  • 3 years for electricity, gas and sewage.
  • 6 months for ERP, asbestos and noise.

Pricing

The price of a property diagnostic package is generally between €300 and €700, with an average of around €450 for a 3-room apartment.

Embarking on a property transaction, whether buying or selling, is a big adventure. To make sure it goes as smoothly as possible, it’s important to surround yourself with professionals, whether you’re looking to carry out a property survey or taking the plunge and becoming a homeowner. With the right support, you can enjoy this big step with peace of mind. Would you like to speak to one of our advisors to find out more about the steps involved in a property transaction? Contact us