Technical

Modifications made to the property must not contravene the Construction Code, particularly in regards to accessibility standards. They must not prevent a person in a wheelchair from accessing the living room or the toilets. They must also be able to be carried out within the initially planned work schedule and not have an impact on the delivery of the finished property. In collective housing buildings, these modifications must not infringe the rights of other co-owners.

After the work is completed, the accommodation must always comply with the standards and thermal regulations in force eg. RT2012, BBC label, NF certification, etc.

Here are some works that the buyer can request:

• Moving or creating an electrical outlet, switch or lighting
• Moving, removing or reducing a partition
• Modifying bathroom fittings eg. removing storage
• Modifying finishes eg. painting, parquet, tiling, etc.

TMAs are common in new properties. Some developers will provide a list of options with a price upon reservation.

The request for Purchaser’s Work Modification must be made by the purchaser as early as possible. The further the property is into construction, the less it will be possible to carry out certain modifications.

The developer or builder responds within approximately 4 weeks, and before the signing of the deed of sale before the notary. During this period, an architect’s office checks the feasibility of the modification work if necessary.

If the TMA request is accepted, the purchaser receives a modified quote as well as a new floor plan of their property.

The modification work carried out by the purchaser generates additional construction costs –  construction, materials, monitoring and management etc. These costs are the responsibility of the purchaser.

Some developers charge for a feasibility study and the design of the new plan. If the TMAs are refused, this amount is still due.

By signing the modified estimate, the purchaser agrees to pay for the Purchaser’s Work Modification (TMA).