Getting estimates and building quotes for renovation work in France

What should a devis contain

There are certain things that you should see and understand on all quotes you receive for building and other works.

- Administrative details about the enterprise itself: name, address, phone number, SIRET number / SARL details

- Date of preparation of the quote, and the period within which the quoted price is valid

- Detailed breakdown of the goods to be supplied, including quantity, price per unit and number of units (e.g. 15 square metres of quarry tiles at 22 euros per square metre)

- A detail of the other related costs, such as labour charges

- The hourly / daily rate of the labour

- All other charges that will apply, such as delivery charges

- the total price that will apply, excluding VAT

- an indication of the VAT charge: may be shown as two figures if the applicable VAT rate is not yet known

As I have said elsewhere but it is worth repeating here, you do need to understand the quote. If two quotes are for different amounts, it is necessary to understand why. Perhaps one roofer has omitted insulation from his quote, or one builder has forgotten about the supporting wall you need...whatever the reason, it is important to understand the quote and be clear in your mind that the quote covers all the work required.

You should not assume that 'the price of taps must be included, he just hasn't separated it out'. If it is not listed, then it quite possibly is not included. Check, in writing, about any material omissions or things that are not clear.

If you are having a property rebuilt from a ruin or a new house built, requiring connections to electricity, water, telephone etc., these should be included in a devis, probably that of the macon.