Before you sign a preliminary contract, you receive the DDT – dossier de diagnostic technique. The seller must have it prepared at their own cost by a certified surveyor (diagnostiqueur). Which reports are needed depends on the year of construction, location and features.
The reports at a glance
- DPE (diagnostic de performance énergétique) – the energy performance certificate, rated A to G. Valid for 10 years and always required
- Amiante (asbestos) – required if the building permit was granted before 1 July 1997. Valid indefinitely if nothing is found
- Plomb (CREP) (lead) – for buildings constructed before 1949
- Électricité / Gaz – if the installation is more than 15 years old. Valid for 3 years
- Termites – in areas designated by the prefecture, including many municipalities in the Alpes-Maritimes. Valid for 6 months
- ERP (état des risques) – natural hazards such as wildfire, flooding, earthquakes or landslides. Valid for 6 months
- Assainissement non collectif – if the house is not connected to mains drainage (septic tank). Inspected by the municipal SPANC, valid for 3 years
- Loi Carrez – the exact floor area of flats in a copropriété. If it is more than 5% smaller than stated, you can claim a price reduction
- Bruit (noise) – near airports, e.g. Nice or Cannes-Mandelieu
The DPE: more than a label
In France, the energy certificate has legal consequences, particularly for letting:
- Since 2025, homes rated G may no longer be newly let as a main residence
- From 2028 this applies to F, from 2034 to E
- Anyone selling a house rated E, F or G must also provide an energy audit (audit énergétique) with renovation proposals and costs
- Since 1 January 2026, electricity is rated more favourably in the DPE. Many electrically heated homes have moved up a class as a result, so an older DPE may look worse than a new one
What it means for you as a buyer
- Owner-occupiers: a poor DPE is mainly a question of heating costs – and a good argument in price negotiations
- If you plan to let: the rating decides whether and for how long you can let at all. Holiday lets now have requirements too (see Holiday letting, the legal way)
- Typical of the Côte d'Azur: houses from the 1960s to 1980s with electric heating and single glazing often end up in E or F. Renovation is worthwhile but should be factored realistically into the price
- Termites and natural hazards: if there is termite activity or the property is in a wildfire zone (with a legal duty to clear vegetation), ask questions rather than simply signing
We review the DDT for every property and tell you openly where we would ask further questions. How we support buyers.
All information without guarantee, as of November 2026. It is for general guidance only and does not replace legal or tax advice.
