Connecting Your New Home to Utilities in France

Network vs Supplier: How French Utilities Work

France separates the company that owns and maintains the network from the company that sells you the supply. The network operator is the same for everyone in your area and handles the meter, connection and emergencies; the supplier is the firm you choose and pay each month. For electricity (Enedis network), gas (GRDF) and internet you choose a supplier and can switch later; for water you simply contact whoever serves your commune.

The Big Divide: New-Build vs Resale

The single most important question is whether you bought a brand-new home or an existing one - the steps, timing and paperwork genuinely differ.

• New-build (VEFA) - the developer brings the networks to the building, but opens no supply contracts. Electricity cannot be switched on until a Consuel conformity certificate is issued.
• Resale - connections and contracts already exist. The seller closes their contracts; you open your own. The pivotal task is taking meter readings on completion day.

Apartments and the Copropriete

In a managed residence, much of your "utilities" is built into your copropriete charges, collected by the syndic. Heating and hot water are often collective; you will still usually need your own electricity contract for everything inside the apartment. Always check what is shared versus individual before completion.

Key idea: supply contracts do not transfer with the sale. Whether new-build or resale, you open the contracts in your name - and on a resale, your completion-day meter readings are what stop you paying the previous owner's bills.