Associates
CPA works closely with French
Property Renovation, a
British company, based in France. Some of the activities of CPA and FPR
overlap but that will be transparent for the client. Like CPA, FPR only
uses registered surveyors and builders. Some of the
services that FPR offers:
Finding an architect
The quality of French architects can vary. Finding the right architect is essential but not easy. Thanks to the knowledge and expertise of the surveyors, FPR can find the best architect for your building project.
Drawing up plans
FPR can arrange for plans to be drawn up or plans can be drawn up by FPR. The latter avoids the cost of commissioning an architect at an early stage of the project.
Finding an architect
The quality of French architects can vary. Finding the right architect is essential but not easy. Thanks to the knowledge and expertise of the surveyors, FPR can find the best architect for your building project.
Drawing up plans
FPR can arrange for plans to be drawn up or plans can be drawn up by FPR. The latter avoids the cost of commissioning an architect at an early stage of the project.
Planning
permission
FPR will help the client with the planning application. To ensure that the application can be approved as quickly as possible, FPR will, before the application is submitted, obtain information about the working practices and specific conditions of the relevant French planning authority. FPR will follow the progress of the application and contact the French authorities to speed up approval, if necessary.
Applying for a French grant
Grants may be available under certain conditions. Note: The most common grants are for converting properties to gîtes. FPR can act on your behalf, offering to: -
- investigate if being awarded a grant is a possibility (based on your property and the intended work)
- prepare the application and submit it to the relevant French authorities
Finding a French builder
The problem of 'cowboy' builders is a big problem in France. These are unofficial workers (it is illegal to use them), the standard of work is often deplorable, and there is hardly ever any come-back. They are often not insured and can definitely not offer an 'assurance decenal', a ten year guarantee on delivered work.
FPR selects and deals only with registered tradesmen, ensuring that they are familiar and competent with the local methods and materials.
Site management
From a basic weekly or fortnightly visit to the building site, to a comprehensive management strategy including planning, coordination, site meetings, etc.
In all cases, FPR produces written reports on progress with photographic back-up via internet. For larger projects, FPR can suggest video-conferences. FPR prepares all the necessary information to enable you to make crucial decisions whilst off-site.
Languages
Often a problem when dealing with French architects and builders. FPR uses mainly either British or fluent English speaking builders. The client always has direct contact with a representative of FPR who speaks fluent English. This will prevent any misunderstandings.
FPR will help the client with the planning application. To ensure that the application can be approved as quickly as possible, FPR will, before the application is submitted, obtain information about the working practices and specific conditions of the relevant French planning authority. FPR will follow the progress of the application and contact the French authorities to speed up approval, if necessary.
Applying for a French grant
Grants may be available under certain conditions. Note: The most common grants are for converting properties to gîtes. FPR can act on your behalf, offering to: -
- investigate if being awarded a grant is a possibility (based on your property and the intended work)
- prepare the application and submit it to the relevant French authorities
Finding a French builder
The problem of 'cowboy' builders is a big problem in France. These are unofficial workers (it is illegal to use them), the standard of work is often deplorable, and there is hardly ever any come-back. They are often not insured and can definitely not offer an 'assurance decenal', a ten year guarantee on delivered work.
FPR selects and deals only with registered tradesmen, ensuring that they are familiar and competent with the local methods and materials.
Site management
From a basic weekly or fortnightly visit to the building site, to a comprehensive management strategy including planning, coordination, site meetings, etc.
In all cases, FPR produces written reports on progress with photographic back-up via internet. For larger projects, FPR can suggest video-conferences. FPR prepares all the necessary information to enable you to make crucial decisions whilst off-site.
Languages
Often a problem when dealing with French architects and builders. FPR uses mainly either British or fluent English speaking builders. The client always has direct contact with a representative of FPR who speaks fluent English. This will prevent any misunderstandings.
