Connecting Utilities – Electricity, Gas & Water

When you have rented out or bought property in France, it is important to know what services are available in terms of Electricity, Gas and Water. Here is some information which will assist you in finding these utility services.

Electricity

If your rent does not include your utilities it is important to find out what the best services are in the area you are living to get your electricity services.

There are many local companies which offer good packages for electricity with the main one being EDF. The cost of electricity is cheaper than elsewhere in Europe but you are still advised to contact different companies to see who gives you the best rate.

The electrical system in France runs on a 220-240 Volt system which is the same as other EU countries.

French citizens usually consider the size of their home, type of heating and the frequency of use for electrical appliance before choosing the level of electricity of supply as this will determine how much your monthly bill will be. More information on this can be obtained from your electrical provider.

Expats living in rural areas are advised to fit surge protectors in their home due to the amount of power cuts there are in homes during storms.

When opening an account with an electrical supplier in France, you will be required to provide documentation such as proof of ID, information on your home and copy of tenancy agreement. Once your electrical agreement has been signed, the meter will be read and then turned on. After this meter’s will then be read every 6 months and bills will arrive every 2-3 months. With your electricity bills you will be required to pay a VAT charge as well as local taxes. Bills can be paid with a direct debit system, online or by even sending a cheque.

Gas

Gas can only be connected for houses that are in the towns and cities to use household appliances and for heating. Homes in the rural areas of France will need to use bottled gas.

The main gas supplier in France is GDF which is part of the electrical supplier EDF. When speaking to customer services, if you state you need both Gas and Electricity you may be able to get a discounted package.

Expats moving into homes will need to contact the local office, who take the readings of a meter and will take all your details before the Gas is turned on. To open up an account, you will need to provide proof of address, sale agreement of property and an ID. The local supplier will be able to assist you on what tariff you need to be on regarding your expected usage of gas.

Gas meters are usually fitted outside of the houses which are read every 4-6 months. Bills are then sent every 2-3 months and will need to be paid via direct debit, sending a cheque or online. Be aware that VAT may be added as well as extra charges for the extra gas used.

Water

There are not as many companies in France that supply water but the provider for each area is usually selected by Mairie. Based on the area that you live in, Mairie will inform you which company will be providing you with your water supply.

Expats who have moved into their home will need to go to the Mairie office to request the account for the property to be transferred in your name. You will be required to provide proof of ID and address. For some supplies, you may need to pay a deposit which will be taken from your first bill.

Water supply in France can be quite expensive but it solely depends on where you are living. Bills are sent every 6-12months which are also sent out by Mairie. Payments can only be made by cash or cheque.  The average price for metered water supply for a house of four people is around €400 annually. This is broken down into three parts with payments for tap water, sewage services and taxes.

Waste Disposal

To dispose waste in France you will need to contact your local authorities to find out more information. There are generally different requirements and regulations regarding this.

Many French people prefer to recycle and this is becoming quite popular in the country, so there will be recycling points in some areas in the towns and cities.