Owning a property in France is a fantastic investment, but it also comes with its fair share of responsibilities, especially when you’re not around to keep an eye on things. Regular property checks are essential to catch potential issues early, from burst pipes to pest infestations. But have you also considered who’s holding your keys and how prepared they are to handle unexpected problems? Let’s explore the importance of having both your property and key management professionally handled.
Property Checks: More Than Just a Quick Look
Ensuring your property is regularly inspected isn’t just about avoiding burst pipes or roof leaks—although those are crucial reasons! Regular checks can help prevent a host of problems, from insects and rodents making themselves at home to weather-related wear and tear. Without these inspections, a small issue could quickly snowball into a much larger, more costly repair.
For example, what if a small crack in the roof goes unnoticed? Over time, rain and wind can worsen the damage, leading to leaks that cause interior damage, mould, or even structural issues. It’s not just about protecting your home from the elements; it’s also about catching general wear and tear before it becomes something you can’t ignore. When was the last time someone took a thorough look around your property, both inside and out?
And while you might have someone holding your keys, there’s more to consider than whether they can pop over in a pinch.
The Hidden Risks of Entrusting Your Keys to a Neighbour
Many property owners trust a friend or neighbour to hold their keys. While this may seem like an easy solution, there are risks involved. For starters, is your neighbour fluent in French? While this isn’t about boasting language skills, the reality is that many of the essential conversations that need to happen during a property crisis—whether with a plumber, locksmith, or even the police—are going to be in French. A language barrier could prevent quick resolutions to urgent problems, potentially escalating the situation.
Another thing to ask yourself: how reliable is your key holder? Would they respond if called upon at 5 p.m. on a Saturday, or in the middle of the night? We’ve heard countless stories of phones mysteriously going silent when urgent help is needed. And if they do answer, are they equipped to think on their feet, find quick solutions, or even know who to call in an emergency? It’s a lot to expect from a neighbour who might have other priorities.
Even the simple act of holding your keys can become complicated. Where does your key holder store them? In a drawer? What if their house is broken into and your keys are stolen? It’s also worth considering if they’re insured to hold keys for other properties. Most people don’t even think about these details until something goes wrong.
The Value of Professional Key Holding and Property Management
At Charente Assistance, we provide both key holding and property checks as part of a professional service that gives you peace of mind. Unlike friends or neighbours, we’re insured, available around the clock, and ready to respond to any situation. We don’t just hold your keys; we’re prepared to act quickly if something goes wrong.
Our key holding service is free, and property checks are conducted for just €45 per visit. If we need to visit the property in response to an issue, we charge our standard rates. This ensures you’re only paying for what’s truly necessary, without hidden fees for simply locking a key in a cupboard.
And yes, we’ll respond at 5 p.m. on a Saturday—or at any time—because we understand that problems don’t happen on a convenient schedule. Whether we hold your keys because we manage the garden or because you trust us to oversee your property, we take the responsibility seriously. After all, would you expect your neighbour to give up their evening for a sudden emergency? Probably not, but that’s exactly what we’re here for.
Final Thoughts
Regular property checks and professional key holding services are essential for protecting your investment in France. Whether it’s preventing water damage, pest infestations, or dealing with an unexpected situation, having a reliable, insured professional at hand makes all the difference. Don’t leave your property’s well-being—and your peace of mind—in the hands of someone who might not be equipped to handle the task. Instead, invest in a service that ensures your home is safe, secure, and well cared for.
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