tonyfitz

Thanks to all who have posted advice and information based on their own individual experiences on this issue.  As usual, all very helpful and interesting.  It does seem a bit strange though as everything we have learned so far about french systems and practices would tend to suggest that they are very keen on bureacracy, forms and procedures.  When bringing your car, for example, you must bring all manner or previous history documentation etc.  I just thought it might be similar for one's personal medical history. Having said that I can understand why doctors in France would simply want to deal with you based upon presenting symptoms etc at any given time. Thanks again.

My wife and I will be relocating to France in the near future and we were wondering if we should arrange to get copies of medical records to take with us from the UK.  My wife has been getting treatment for about 20 years for back problems, usually just pain killers on a regular basis.  Does anyone have any knowledge of this issue? I was thinking it might be a good idea to get a hold of them and perhaps have them translated to take with us or is there some other kind of exhange of information mechanism already in place?  

To minimise confusion the article above also relates to the piece on burglary on the theme of property

I began to read inputs on this theme as a consequence of trying to gather some information about initially renting in France, rather than buying a property straight off. My wife and I intend to relocate to France in August this year and hope to be able to live in the north of Aquitaine or Poitou-Charente area.  Might I suggest that the question 'is it best to rent to english or french' could cause some considerable annoyance to some people who may perhaps be more sensitive to stereotyping than others. The inference appears to be 'we don't want French people to live in our property that happens to be in France, owned by a foreigner'  It also leaves me wondering if, as a Scotsman, just about to complete 30 years in the Scottish Police Service, I would also be a potential dubious tenant. I think really the issue is about having proper checks and balances in place and trying, as far as is possible, to ensure that anyone you are considering renting to has good references and signs a proper legal contract overseen by someone from the legal profession. In Scotland we have something known as a probationary tenancy that lasts for 6 months. Any difficulties within that time with lack of care, non payment etc will result in the tenants immediate eviction (forced if necessary.) I know French law is different and, understandably in some respects, tends to favour the tenant.  However my enquiries to date indicate that if a property is let unfurnished in France the minimum period of let is for 3 years, during which time it is virtually impossible to remove unwanted tenants.  If a property is let furnished the rights of the landlord are more in balance and one can possibly lease on a 3, 4 etc month basis, or on a renewable every 6 month basis, whilst still maintaining some controls. Some tenants, I believe, also offer storage facilities for any property owned by tenants, and furnish their properties with the meagre-est of items to qualify for furnished 'status.' On a crime prevention theme, I concur with the person who gave advice about locks, which should include window locks etc although in the case of a property that is fairly isolated no matter what external measures are employed if someone is determined, greater security sometimes means greater damage. A key element is giving the impression of occupancy as much as possible, use timer switches for radio, tv, recording of barking dog if necessary as well as for lights (although it is probable that most break-ins occur during daylight hours) Ideally have someone local check on the property regularly.  There is a very useful booklet on home security that can be accessed free on www.crimereduction.gov.uk that will allow you to do as much as you can to protect your property. I also agree with the point made about making it as difficult as you can as there are plenty who would make it fairly easy.    

Many thanks to everyone who responded. All points noted and will be borne in mind.  Off to the kennels now to see if I can acquire an angry dog!

My wife and I intend to tour the south and south west of France towards the end of this year in a Motorhome. We will be searching for property.  However I have read (somewhere) and heard that security is a major issue in the south of France as there are numerous incidents where Motorhomes are targeted by criminal gangs, even whilst the owners are asleep on board. It isn't causing us to think twice about doing it but it certainly is making us think hard about where we go, security measures etc.  I know that a lot of this is common sense but has anyone got any particular experiences to add to my sleepless nights or is it no worse than anywhere else.  

Being in a similar position in the UK I  have found it invaluable to solicit the advice of an accountant. The first seesion I had lasting half an hour was very helpful in terms of taxation on rental income etc.  Apparently if a reasonable chunk of that income is to cover interest payments on a mortgage then there is very little tax to be paid from this.  The first session was free and the accountant offered long term support and to act as a point of contact in the UK when we move to France for the sum of £355 (incl VAT) per annum.  My view is that this service is well worth it and can save a lot of grief.

Many thanks for all of your comments and advice. Very helpful indeed. Much appreciated.  

My wife and I are about to relocate to France upon retirement. I am trying to gather as much information as I can on tax issues and cost of living (ie normal outgoings on a monthly basis) I would welcome any information on typical monthly costs for living in a property valued at say 180000 euros or thereabouts. I understand there are a number of different taxes associated with house ownership. I would like information on costs per month for the following:- Taxation in connection with house ownership... Electricity Gas Water Health Telephone Television any other day to day costs. Any response greatly appreciated.