Setting Up a Liberal Profession in a Co-Ownership Property in France
Opening a professional practice—whether as a doctor, architect, or lawyer—within a residential building in France requires careful consideration of both co-ownership rules and urban planning regulations.
Before signing a lease or starting renovations, it is essential to ensure the project complies with the building’s by-laws and the city’s administrative requirements.
Here are the key legal and practical steps to follow when setting up a liberal profession in a co-owned property.
Review the Co-Ownership Regulations Before You Begin
The first step is to consult the co-ownership regulations (règlement de copropriété), which define the permitted uses of the private lots. Two types of clauses may apply:
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Exclusive residential use (“habitation bourgeoise exclusive”) – This clause prohibits all professional activity within the building, even without client visits. It is common in prestigious Haussmann-style residences or high-end condominiums.
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Mixed use (“habitation bourgeoise simple”) – This allows the exercise of a liberal profession, provided it remains compatible with the building’s residential character and does not disturb other co-owners.
👉 Note: Some regulations restrict professional activities to ground-floor units to avoid excess traffic in the common areas.
French courts have ruled, for example, that a medical or legal practice may be authorized if the associated activity causes no more disturbance than normal residential use.
Consider the Impact on Shared Building Charges
Client visits and professional activities can increase wear and tear on common areas (entrances, elevators, corridors).
If the co-ownership by-laws do not specify how to allocate these extra costs, the general meeting of co-owners (assemblée générale) may vote to adjust the shared charges for the concerned unit.
Such adjustments are typically modest and negotiated amicably to maintain fairness among co-owners and preserve harmony within the building.
Administrative Authorizations Required
1. Change of Use Authorization
If the unit was previously used for residential purposes, a change-of-use authorization is mandatory before converting it into a professional office.
This requirement applies in cities with more than 200,000 inhabitants (including Paris, Lyon, and Marseille) and in parts of the Île-de-France region such as the Hauts-de-Seine department.
The request must be submitted to the local town hall (Mairie) by either the property owner or the tenant. Some areas, like urban free zones, may be exempt.
2. Planning Permission
Transforming a residence into professional premises may also trigger urban planning obligations:
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A prior declaration (déclaration préalable) is required even if no construction work is planned;
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A building permit (permis de construire) is necessary for major works or any alteration to the façade.
Failure to obtain these authorizations can result in fines and legal penalties, as well as orders to restore the property’s original use.
aneau Immobilier – Expert Guidance for Your Professional Real Estate Projects
With deep expertise in Parisian and high-end real estate, Vaneau Immobilier supports property owners, investors, and professionals in managing and optimizing their co-ownership assets.
Our teams advise you on:
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leasing or acquiring professional premises in residential buildings,
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navigating administrative and legal procedures,
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optimizing rental yields while maintaining property value,
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and ensuring full compliance with French real estate regulations.
Tel: +33 (0)1 48 00 88 75
📧 contact@vaneau.fr
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