Real estate diagnostics aim to inform buyers as accurately as possible about the characteristics of the property they are considering purchasing. Since 2012, if you decide to sell your property, the law requires 11 mandatory diagnostics.
Since April 1, 2023, when selling a single-family house or a building with multiple units classified as F or G in the Energy Performance Diagnosis (DPE) and owned by the same owner, it is now required to provide the potential buyer with an energy audit in addition to the 11 mandatory diagnostics.
Let’s review your obligations as a seller together.
Mandatory real estate diagnostics for sale
The energy performance diagnosis (DPE) is the only mandatory diagnostic at the time of listing. Regarding the other 10, their completion depends on the type of property, the year of construction, or the geographical location. If a mandatory diagnostic is missing or incorrect, the sale may be canceled or the price reduced, so don’t neglect them!
The Energy Performance Diagnosis (DPE)
This diagnostic allows you to estimate the property’s energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). It applies to all properties, and its validity period is 10 years.
If the house or building has a DPE rated F or G, an energy audit must be performed in addition. This audit will provide a list of works to improve the property’s rating. Note that these works are not mandatory to complete the sale.
Lead Exposure Risk Report (Crep)
The Crep informs the buyer about the presence of lead in the old paints of the property. It applies to properties with a building permit issued before January 1, 1949. The Crep is valid indefinitely if negative, but the diagnostic must be redone every year if lead is detected.
Asbestos Condition Report
The asbestos condition report identifies whether certain materials contain asbestos. It applies to all properties (apartments, houses, and outbuildings) where the building permit was issued before July 1, 1997. This diagnostic is valid indefinitely.
Termite Diagnosis
This diagnostic applies to all properties located in areas defined as infested by termites by a prefectural decree. Its validity period is 6 months.
Wood Decay Diagnosis (Mérules)
Mérules are destructive fungi that compromise the structural integrity of wood. Their rapid growth can weaken wood quickly, making it dangerous to live in a property infested with mérules. Therefore, it is essential to confirm their presence.
Gas Diagnosis
The gas diagnosis assesses the condition of the gas installation in the property. It applies to properties with a gas installation older than 15 years or where the last certificate of conformity is more than 15 years old. Its validity period is 3 years.
Electrical Diagnosis
When the electrical installation in a property is more than 15 years old, the electrical diagnosis is mandatory. It checks the safety of the electrical equipment. Its validity period is 3 years.
Septic System Diagnosis
The septic system diagnosis only applies to properties not connected to the public sewer system. These properties must be equipped with an autonomous system, which is subject to verification of its proper functioning. Its validity period is 3 years.
Risk and Pollution Report (ERP)
This diagnostic aims to inform the buyer about the risks of natural disasters, mining risks, technological disasters, preventive zones for technological risks, and soil pollution. These risks are defined by a prefectural decree displayed in the town hall, indicating the affected communes. Its validity period is 6 months or until regulatory changes occur.
The diagnostician or the property owner can search for risks identified by the authorities.
Carrez Law Measurement
This diagnostic guarantees the future buyer the private surface area of the property. The floor area is measured, excluding spaces occupied by walls, partitions, door and window frames, stairs, and shafts. This diagnostic applies to all properties in co-ownership with a surface area of at least 8m².
The validity of the Carrez measurement is indefinite unless a smaller measurement is found. Note that a measurement error of more than 5% can allow the buyer to lower the sale price of the property.
Noise Diagnosis
The noise diagnostic informs potential buyers of any airborne noise nuisances. If your property is located in an area exposed to airport noise, this diagnostic is mandatory. Although it is only informative, its absence may lead to legal action by the buyer.
