The signing at the notaire's is done and you have the keys. Now it is about making sure everything in your new home works. So that nothing is forgotten, we have put together the key points. One thing up front: there is no obligation to register your address with any authority in France.
On handover day
- Photograph the meter readings (electricity, water, gas if applicable). Your electricity meter number (PDL, point de livraison) is on the Linky meter or on the seller's last bill
- Count and take over all keys, garage remotes, fobs and codes
- Ask the seller to explain the pool, heating, air conditioning and irrigation
In the first week
- Insurance (assurance habitation) – must be in place from the day of signing. In a copropriété, liability insurance for owners is compulsory. For houses it is not required by law but strongly recommended (water damage, storms, burglary)
- Electricity: transfer the contract into your name or take out a new one, with EDF or another supplier. All you need is the PDL number and the meter reading
- Water: depending on the municipality, this is a municipal service (régie) or a private company. Ask at the mairie or check the seller's last bill
- Internet: order fibre early – installation can take several weeks. Providers' websites show whether fibre is available
- Locks: for houses, a new lock cylinder is often worthwhile
Within the first 30 days
- Inform the syndic (for flats): your contact and bank details for the payment calls. More in The French copropriété explained
- Tax: create an account on impots.gouv.fr and declare how you use the property. How it works: French online services without the frustration
- Rubbish and recycling: in many municipalities you need a card for the déchetterie (recycling centre), issued by the inter-municipal authority – in the Pays de Grasse, by the CAPG. Ask about collection days too
- Post: put your name on the letterbox – without it, mail is often not delivered
- French phone number and bank account – make almost everything easier. See Bank account, phone number, télépéage
- Say hello to the neighbours – a quick “Bonjour” and introduction opens many doors here. Tips in Tu or vous?
Typical of the Côte d'Azur: obligations you may not know
- Clearing vegetation (débroussaillement): if you live in or near woodland or scrub, you must clear the ground within 50 m of buildings, often including on neighbouring land. Municipalities check, and breaches are fined. Best done before summer
- Chimney sweeping (ramonage): regularly required for fireplaces and wood stoves. Keep the certificate – insurers ask for it after a claim
- Pool safety: private pools must have an approved safety device (fence, cover, alarm or enclosure). Check that one is fitted and working
This checklist will soon be available as a printable PDF in our download area.
All information without guarantee, as of November 2026. It is for general guidance only and does not replace legal or tax advice.
