Why Renovation Advice Before You Buy is the Smartest Move in France

“We’d already fallen in love with the house – but thank goodness we got someone in to look before we signed.”
– Recent British buyer, now happily renovating in southwest France

“Independent advice can be the difference between a dream project and an expensive headache.”

The Hidden Pitfalls of Buying a Renovation Project

Many international buyers assume the French diagnostic reports (DPE, lead, asbestos, septic systems and so on) will flag all the major issues. In reality, these diagnostics offer only a limited snapshot and say little about the scope or cost of future works. They won’t tell you if a roof is nearing the end of its life, if the layout is workable, or whether your ideas are viable under local planning rules.

That’s why we created our consultation service; because too many buyers were coming to us after the sale, only to find that their dream home came with unexpected costs or unworkable plans.

Who We Are

SR Charpenterie is a family-run entreprise du bâtiment with its roots in a multi-generational UK building firm. We’ve lived and worked in France for over 7 years and are fully registered for carpentry, joinery, masonry, roofing, and kitchen and bathroom installation.

We are not agents, and we’re not here to sell you a vision. We are artisans, with real-world experience, who speak the language and understand how building in France really works. We’ve renovated everything from barns to stone farmhouses, including our own.

How Our Consultation Works

We offer flexible on-site or remote consultations across France. It’s a practical, no-nonsense service that helps you understand what you’re really taking on, before you make a financial commitment.

You can choose from three clear packages:

– Basic – from €250 
  A one-hour on-site or video consultation to assess visible elements (roof, frame, layout, joinery etc.) with verbal guidance and a chance to ask your key questions.

– Standard – from €450 
  Includes everything in the Basic package, plus a written report with notes on planning considerations, layout feasibility, project phasing and typical timeframes. Follow-up Q and A is included.

– Premium – from €750 
  A longer site visit (up to 2.5 hours) with additional photo or video documentation, a review of outbuildings or garden structures, and support for planning dossiers or architect liaison. Ideal for more complex or larger properties.

All prices are “from” and may vary slightly based on travel. Optional add-ons such as liaising with estate agents, translating planning documents, or reviewing a second property are also available.

What Makes Us Different

We work only for you. We have no ties to agents, sellers or developers – our advice is entirely independent. This service is not just about ticking boxes or preparing formal reports. It’s about helping you make informed choices, avoid expensive mistakes and move forward with confidence.

Others may offer similar consultations, but very few combine site-based knowledge, bilingual communication, full trade registration and decades of experience on the tools. It’s this blend of local know-how and practical insight that gives our clients real peace of mind.

Top Tips Before You Buy

– Always get a second opinion – A seller or estate agent may not point out major concerns
– Understand the planning rules – Converting a barn or changing windows often needs approval
– Budget realistically – Materials and labour can be more expensive and slower than in the UK
– Use someone who speaks the language – Avoid costly misunderstandings with trades or town halls
– Check what’s visible – and what isn’t – A new kitchen can hide a failing fuse board or leaky roof

A Starting Point, Not a Rival

Some wonder if this service overlaps with surveyors or architects. In truth, it complements them. Think of it as a practical first step, an early sounding board to understand whether a property is worth pursuing, and what professional support you may need next.

Whether you’re still browsing or already under offer, a Pre Purchase Renovation Consultation could save you thousands and months of stress. And at the very least, it offers the reassurance that you’re going in with your eyes open.