Renovating in France: What Property Owners Should Know Before Starting a Project

(Aurelia – Villa & Project Management You Can Trust)

Renovating a villa in the South of France is an exciting chapter for any homeowner. Whether you’re refreshing a beloved family home, restoring a Provençal gem, or upgrading a property for holiday use, the results can be transformative.

However, the truth is this: Renovating in France is not quite like renovating anywhere else. Different laws, different processes, different expectations — and often a different pace.

At Aurelia, we manage projects on behalf of local and international homeowners across the Pays de Fayence and surrounding villages. Here is what every villa owner should know before beginning their renovation journey.

1. Understanding French Planning Rules (What Requires Permission?)

Even small changes may require approval in France. Many owners are surprised to learn that:

• Changing shutters or windows often needs a Déclaration Préalable.

• Structural alterations, extensions, or pool installations require a Permis de Construire.

• Historic or protected zones (common in medieval villages like Seillans, Callian, Fayence and Bargemon) have stricter rules.

• Colours and materials must often match the local Provençal style.

A project manager ensures applications are submitted correctly — and that your timeline doesn’t stall while waiting for permissions.

2. Finding Reliable Artisans Isn’t Always Easy

Skilled, trustworthy artisans exist — but they are often booked months in advance, especially in desirable regions like the Pays de Fayence.

Aurelia helps by:

• Recommending vetted, reputable professionals

• Coordinating quotes and comparing costs

• Creating fair timelines

• Ensuring work is delivered to the standard agreed

Good artisans are worth waiting for. Rushing this part is one of the biggest renovation mistakes owners make.

3. Renovating Projects in France Take Time (More Than You Expect)

A beautiful result is worth it — but renovation timelines in France are almost always longer than the UK, Netherlands, Germany, or US.

Common reasons:

• Long administrative processes

• Artisan availability

• Traditional construction methods

• Driving time between villages

• Holiday periods when sites temporarily close

A project manager keeps the momentum going by coordinating every step, ensuring no lost weeks, and catching delays early.

4. Clear Budgets Prevent Cost Surprises

The charm of old villas often comes with hidden challenges:

• Old electrical systems

• Non-standard measurements

• Stone walls that conceal surprises

• Historic materials needing careful handling

Proper budgeting includes a buffer for contingencies — typically 10–15%. Aurelia helps manage costs transparently, monitoring each stage so you always know where your investment stands.

5. Quality Control Is Essential Whilst Renovating (Especially If You’re Not Here)

Most villa owners are not in France full-time.This is where project management becomes invaluable.

We:

• Make regular site visits

• Send photo/video updates

• Check quality against the agreed specification

• Ensure work meets both French regulations and your expectations

Our job is to protect your home, your investment and your peace of mind.

6. Communication Makes or Breaks a Renovation

French artisans often communicate differently than international homeowners expect. This can lead to misunderstandings, mismatched expectations or gaps in information.

Aurelia acts as your central point of contact, ensuring:

• No misunderstandings

• No unanswered questions

• No lost messages

• No misaligned expectations

With us, communication is clear, timely and professional.

7. The Result Is Worth It — A Home That Truly Reflects You

When done properly, a renovation in the South of France can:

• Increase property value

• Improve energy efficiency

• Modernise comfort while keeping Provençal charm

• Transform outdoor living spaces

• Create a villa that’s a joy to return to

Aurelia ensures that your project is beautifully executed — and that the result feels like home.

Thinking of Renovating Your Villa? We’d Be Delighted to Help.

Whether you’re planning a light refresh or a complete transformation, Aurelia offers:

✔ Full project management✔ Trusted artisans✔ Transparent communication✔ Regular updates✔ Local knowledge of planning rules✔ Complete peace of mind

Contact us to discuss your project:

📞 Call Caroline: +33 673 89 21 85📧 Email: info@aureliavillamanagement.com