Evie

We applied in good time for the extention, a good three months before expiry date but I seem to recall the letter asking us to re-apply mentioned 'zoning' as reason for refusal.  Our planning application is on a barn and are employing a local architect so he has taken care of the plans etc. The main problem encountered in our case has been with the right of way to the property. We have owned a cottage on same piece of land as the barn since 1999 and it appears have never had 'official' right of way to it. This should have been dealt with at the time of purchase (another story!). We heard fairly quickly , about two weeks, through our architect that the dossier was incomplete. (Letter followed after from DDE). Sorting out what's to be done about it is taking a little longer though. Before this occured we were told that we would hear decision within 3 months. I am lead to believe that as the planning application passes through each of the departments for approval they can ask for further information. If this is not the case perhaps other forum members will respond. Good luck with your application. Evie

Hi Just seen your email and thought I would let you know our experience. We had a similar problem last year in the Vendee when trying to extend our CU. We were told by the Mairie that the 'law' had changed and said they could not grant another year. We could however re-apply for the CU, which we did, sending exactly the same documents as the first time and were then given another year!! We have now just applied for full planning permission and although there have been some major issues identified, everyone from the Mairie to the Notaire have been extremely helpful in trying to sort them out. Should know the decision in a couple of months so fingers crossed.   Evie

Hi Billy 10 I have been reading forum messages for some time but only now needed to join in and ask advice. When contacting the Notaire recently over another issue we were told that he owes us 317 euros from our house purchase in 1999! As we didn't know money was due we never queried it. Can Notaires hold on to your money like this?  Cheers Evie