Mandatory Property Inspection: Complete List 2026

The sale of a property in France requires the seller to provide the buyer with a Technical Diagnostic Report (DDT), which is appended to the preliminary contract or authentic deed. In 2026, regulations are tightening, particularly on energy efficiency with the progressive ban on renting energy-inefficient properties. Mastering the exhaustive list of mandatory inspections is therefore essential to legally secure the transaction and avoid post-sale disputes. This article provides a comprehensive overview of required inspections in 2026 according to the nature of the property, its location and year of construction.

The legal framework of the Technical Diagnostic Report

The DDT is governed by articles L.271-4 to L.271-6 of the Construction and Housing Code (CCH). Its absence engages the seller's liability and may result in cancellation of the sale, a price reduction, or even action based on hidden defects. Each inspection must be carried out by a COFRAC-certified inspector, in accordance with decree No. 2006-1114. The validity period varies according to the type of inspection, and an expired document is not binding on the buyer.

List of 10 mandatory inspections in 2026

1. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) — Mandatory for all residential properties, valid for 10 years. Since 2025, properties classified as G are banned from rental; F will be in 2028.

1. Asbestos Inspection — Mandatory for properties with a building permit dated before 1 July 1997. Unlimited validity if no asbestos detected.

1. Lead Risk Assessment Report (CREP) — For properties built before 1 January 1949. Validity of 1 year if positive, unlimited if negative.

1. Condition regarding the presence of termites — Mandatory in areas defined by prefectural order. Validity 6 months.

1. Condition of the internal gas installation — For installations over 15 years old. Validity 3 years.

1. Condition of the internal electrical installation — For installations over 15 years old. Validity 3 years.

1. Risks and Pollution Assessment (RRP) — Mandatory in areas affected by a Natural Hazard Prevention Plan (natural, mining, technological), seismic activity, radon. Validity 6 months.

1. Non-mains sewerage system inspection — For properties not connected to mains drainage. Validity 3 years.

1. Carrez Law Measurement — For any unit in a co-ownership building (excluding cellars, garages, terraces). Unlimited duration unless modifications are made.

1. Energy Audit — Mandatory since 1 April 2023 for the sale of properties classified as F or G, extended to class E in 2025 and class D in 2034.

Sanctions and liability for non-compliance

The absence of a mandatory inspection deprives the seller of the exemption clause from liability for hidden defects (article 1641 of the Civil Code). An incorrect EPC can now engage the liability of both the inspector AND the seller, since its binding nature was established by the Climate and Resilience Act of 22 August 2021. Criminal penalties can reach €37,500 fine for false declaration concerning asbestos or lead.