In this episode of French Reno Diaries UNCENSORED, we tackle one of the biggest and most emotionally charged topics for anyone renovating in France: money. Specifically, why renovation budgets so often blow out, why DIY is not always the saving people think it is, and why French renovation costs feel so shocking if you arrive with UK (or other overseas) expectations.

Resources & tools mentioned in this episode

• Artisan Central – pre-checked trades directory and homeowner resource covering devis, insurance and renovation planning
• Capeb – French construction trade association with an online directory of registered trades by region
• BricoCash – DIY and building materials retailer (mentioned in the context of lower-quality materials)
• Howdens France - the French version of UK kitchen suppliers, Howdens.

Glossary (French terms used in this episode that might be new to you)

• Devis – a legally binding quote and contract between a homeowner and a trade
• Décennale / assurance décennale – mandatory ten-year insurance covering structural work
• TVA – French value-added tax applied to labour and materials
• Micro-entrepreneur (ME) – self-employed business status in France
• SIRET number – official business registration number
• Attestation d’assurance – proof of insurance coverage
• Cotisations – mandatory social charges paid by French businesses
• Mairie – local town hall
• Maison secondaire – second home
• ERP – regulations for buildings open to the public
• Notaire – public official handling property sales and legal transfer

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Email: frenchrenodiaries@gmail.com

Find out more about us and our French reno businesses:

Maison Bretagne (Rosie Ellis)

S.R. Charpenterie (Sue Peake-Russell)

Paul Wilkins Electricien (Micala Wilkins)

Credits:

• Produced & mixed by: Katy Wright
• Music: Grand Project