Since January 1, 2025, a new rule strengthens prevention against the risk of fire. Owners of property located in areas sensitive to forest and vegetation fires will now have to provide an assessment of the risks to which their housing is exposed to their tenants or potential buyers. This statement of risks must be provided, “if the accommodation in question is located in one of the areas where the obligation to clear brush and maintain it in a cleared state applies”, specifies the Public Service website.
As a reminder, clearing consists of reducing plant matter of all kinds (grass, branches, leaves, etc.). This may involve, for example, pruning trees or shrubs or eliminating cutting residues (branches, grass, etc.), the site further details.
When to communicate?
The assessment of risks (natural, mining, technological, seismic, etc.) including the obligation to clear bushes must be mentioned in the announcement of the sale or rental of the property. This must contain the following sentence: “Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisks website”.
In addition, the statement of risks concerning the accommodation must be submitted during the first visit and annexed to the promise of sale as well as to the deed of sale. For rental, the information must also be given during the first visit and annexed to the lease.
What are the sanctions?
In the event of non-compliance with these obligations, sanctions are provided. The local authorities (mayor or prefect) can put the owner on notice and impose a fine of up to 100 euros per day of delay, up to a limit of 5,000 euros, indicates RMC. If the failure to clear brush results in the spread of a fire causing destruction, the person may be fined 15,000 euros and imprisoned for one year.
