Bourbonnais roof tiles (tuiles)

[Backleee]

Hi, - also posted in House renovations

This is my first post. My wife and I are currently renting in the Allier (Auvergne) and after viewing loads of houses think we've found the one we want.

It's main defect is the roof (well also the grange roof, but that's for the future). The woodwork seems fine, I've had a good look in the attic etc., but some of the tiles have slipped.

By all accounts the tiles (tuiles Bourbonnaises) are local to the area and are more expensive - basically they are still terracotta but are smaller and flat with a pre-moulded hook on the rear to sit on the supporting lathe. Newer tiles are premoulded and nailed on etc.

Has anyone come across tiles like this before when restoring/repairing a roof? I'm not sure if you can buy them or how expensive they may be?

Any advice will be gratefully received - plus will help us with our choice. Thanks.