Do I need the devis to contest French builder’s bad job?

Reader question: Our builder did a bad job, using the wrong materials and equipment. How can I get a copy of the devis to prove this? 

 A French devis (estimate) is a legal contract between you and the person doing the work. It is compulsory in the building trade, as well as in eight other trades ranging from house moving to funeral services.

It should include a detailed breakdown of the work to be done and when, and how much it will cost, including VAT and other administrative charges handled by the builder.

Examine it carefully. If, for example, you see that the price for a commonplace item (such as a sack of cement) is far higher than you would normally pay in a DIY store, ask why. 

There may be a good reason (using a high quality branded cement, for example), or it might be an artificial increase in charges. If that is the case, offer to buy the item yourself – usually the builder will lower the price.

Contact Bright Avocats to obtain advice in English on legal matters in France.

Once you are happy with the estimate, sign and date it, and the builder will do the same. They are now committed to doing the work in the time stated, and you are committed to paying them the amount laid out in the devis either at the end of the work or according to a pre-agreed schedule.

Read more: couple build French home out of old shipping containers

In this instance, the absence of a devis makes any potential legal action far harder. Explore options with a lawyer – you may find that legal insurance, often included with French household insurance packages, will help with the case.

Remember that the price on a devis is binding only if the work and materials are carried out as detailed on it. If additional materials or hours are required, costs may change. It is the responsibility of the builder to inform you and issue a revised devis or additional facture (bill).

Sarah Bright-Thomas is an English-speaking lawyer at Bright Avocats