Mandatory Real Estate Inspection: Complete List 2026

The sale of a real estate property in France requires the seller to provide the buyer with a Technical Diagnostic File (TDF) attached to the sales agreement or deed of sale. In 2026, regulations are being strengthened, particularly on the energy front with the progressive ban on renting thermal 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 complete overview of required inspections in 2026 based on the nature of the property, its location, and year of construction.

The Legal Framework for the Technical Diagnostic File

The TDF is governed by articles L.271-4 to L.271-6 of the French Building and Housing Code (Code de la construction et de l'habitation — CCH). Its absence engages the seller's liability and may result in transaction cancellation, price reduction, or claims for hidden defects. Each inspection must be carried out by a COFRAC-certified inspector in accordance with decree n°2006-1114. The validity period varies by inspection type, 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 10 years. Since 2025, G-rated properties are prohibited from rental; F-rated will be in 2028.

1. Asbestos Inspection — Mandatory for properties with building permits issued before July 1, 1997. Unlimited validity if absence is detected.

1. Lead Risk Assessment Certificate (LRAC) — For properties built before January 1, 1949. Valid 1 year if positive, unlimited if negative.

1. Termite Risk Assessment — Mandatory in areas defined by prefectural order. Valid 6 months.

1. Gas Installation Report — For installations over 15 years old. Valid 3 years.

1. Electrical Installation Report — For installations over 15 years old. Valid 3 years.

1. Risk and Pollution Assessment (ERP) — Mandatory in areas subject to hazard prevention plans (natural, mining, technological), seismic activity, radon. Valid 6 months.

1. Non-collective Sanitation Inspection — For properties not connected to public sewerage. Valid 3 years.

1. Carrez Measurement — For any apartment unit in a condominium (excluding cellars, garages, terraces). Unlimited duration unless structural modifications are made.

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

Sanctions and Liability for Non-Compliance

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