Buyers warned to ask for dry rot checks

Brittany is the region with the most problems with mérule or dry rot and notaires have warned that the usual compulsory diagnostics when a house is put up for sale do not include it.

Dry rot can be extremely difficult and expensive to eradicate and, hiding behind false ceilings, in lofts, cellars or under eaves, can be difficult to spot unless specific checks are made.

It is thought 75% to 100% of communes in Finistère are affected by the fungus and properties in damp areas should be considered as at risk with buyers advised to demand checks.

Neighbouring Côtes d’Armor plus the Nord department in Hauts-de-France have 50% to 75% of properties affected.