How to Find a Reliable Tradesperson in France When You Don’t Speak French

Moving to France brings many wonderful things — sunshine, wine, culture — but when something electrical goes wrong in your home, the language barrier can suddenly feel huge.

If you’re an English speaker living in France and need a trustworthy electrician, you’re definitely not alone. Thousands of expats struggle with the same question:

“How do I find a reliable tradesperson in France when I don’t speak French?”

The good news? It’s absolutely possible — and easier than you might think — once you know where to look and what to ask.

Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you find the right electrician with confidence.

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✔ 1. Look for Tradespeople Who Advertise English-Speaking Services

Many French tradespeople now specify that they speak English, especially in areas with strong expat communities.

In this example, we are going to look for an electrician.

For instance, try searching for:

• électricien anglophone (English-speaking electrician)

• electrician English speaking France

• électricien qui parle anglais (electrician who speaks English)

Or simply browse directories that specialise in English-friendly tradespeople in France — like ours.

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✔ 2. Check They Are Properly Registered

France has very clear rules for tradespeople. A reliable electrician should have:

A valid SIRET number

This is their legal business registration.

You can look it up easily on official websites.

Assurance Décennale (10-year insurance)

This insurance protects you if anything goes wrong with the work.

You can ask them:

Avez-vous une assurance décennale ?

(Do you have 10-year liability insurance?)

A professional tradesperson will happily send you a copy.

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✔ 3. Ask for a Written Quote (“Devis”) Every Time

In France, a written quote is standard procedure.

Never start work without one.

Ask:

Pourriez-vous me faire un devis, s’il vous plaît ?

(Could you send me a quote, please?)

A proper devis should include:

• Labour cost

• Materials

• Call-out fee

• VAT

• Estimated timeframe

If a tradesperson refuses to provide a written quote — walk away.

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✔ 4. Use Expat Facebook Groups for Recommendations

Some of the best advice comes from people like you — other English speakers living in France.

Join groups like:

• British in France

• Expats in France

• English Speakers in [your town/region]

Post something simple like:

“Can anyone recommend an English-speaking tradesperson in [your area]?”

You’ll often receive replies within minutes, including reliable, proven contacts.

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✔ 5. Read Google Reviews (Especially English Comments)

When searching “électricien near me,” pay attention to reviews.

Positive French keywords to look for:

• professionnel

• ponctuel (punctual)

• sérieux (serious, trustworthy)

• travail propre (clean work)

Bonus:

If you see reviews from English speakers saying the electrician was easy to communicate with, that’s a great sign.

Avoid electricians with:

• No reviews

• Many complaints about not showing up

• Only 5-star ratings with no comments (usually fake)

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✔ 6. Use Simple French Phrases (You Don’t Need to Be Fluent)

Most electricians are used to working with foreigners.

Using just a few simple lines helps a lot.

Do you speak English?

Parlez-vous anglais ?

My French is limited.

Je parle très peu français.

When are you available?

Quelle est votre disponibilité ?

Can you send a quote?

Pourriez-vous me faire un devis ?

You don’t need perfect French — just clarity.

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✔ 7. Ask Your Local Mairie (Town Hall)

This is a very underrated tip.

Most mairies keep a small list of trusted local artisans they’ve worked with before.

Just walk in and ask:

Avez-vous une liste d’artisans recommandés ?

(Do you have a list of recommended tradespeople?)

They may provide electricians they know and trust — usually reliable, long-established professionals.

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✔ 8. Watch Out for Red Flags

Avoid any electrician who:

❌ Refuses to give a written quote

❌ Has no SIRET number

❌ Only accepts cash

❌ Can’t show insurance

❌ Asks for a very large deposit

❌ Gives vague or changing prices

These are common warning signs in France.

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⭐ The Easiest Solution: Use a Directory Built for English Speakers in France

Instead of scrolling through French websites or guessing who to trust, you can simply browse English-speaking tradespeople and ready to help.

Our directory features:

• Electricians who speak English

• access to real customer reviews

• links to make contact easy for you

• Easy search by region

At Biz Où, our advertising policy aims to keep things:-

LEGAL – Advertisements must not contain any content that violates the law or omits anything that the law requires.

DECENT – Advertisements must not include content that could cause serious or widespread offence or embarrassment; nor should they display content that is not suitable for publication; or likely to subject Biz Où? to criticism or legal action.

HONEST & TRUTHFUL – Advertisements must not mislead consumers through inaccuracies, ambiguities, exaggeration, or neglect, about any matter that could influence their choice regarding the advertised product or service.

This saves you time, stress, and potential problems.

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If you’re an English speaker in France looking for a reliable electrician, we’ve made the process simple, safe, and stress-free.

👉 www.biz-ou.com it launches in January 2026

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🏡 Final Tip

The key to success in France isn’t perfect French — it’s knowing where to look and what to ask.

With the right info and a trusted directory behind you, you can find a professional tradesman quickly and with confidence.