Episode
Rants & Bants! (The one where the London brain meets rural France)
- Published
- Apr 14, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2458
- Processing state
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- https://rss.com/podcasts/french-reno-diaries-uncensored/2685789
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Summary
Micala's back - and there's lots to chew over! In this episode: a Facebook post about deposits that had Micala seething before 4am, the growing crackdown on cash-in-hand work in France, and a very public social media post from some new arrivals that raised more than a few eyebrows. Plus, working from home in your pyjamas, the French social system defended, and a lovely shout-out from a well-respected voice in the renovating-in-France community. Resources mentioned: Renovations in France — Professional tradesman, Peter Gerrit's well-regarded Facebook group. Fix Radio — UK radio station and podcast for the trades, referenced during the episode. CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales) — the French family allowance fund that provides housing and other support. Mini glossary: Devis — a formal written quote that, once signed, forms a binding contract. Should always include payment terms. Travail au noir — cash-in-hand work that is undeclared to French tax and social charge authorities. Both the worker and the person employing them can face serious penalties. BTP (Bâtiment et Travaux Publics) — the construction and public works sector; one of the top three sectors targeted by French anti-fraud authorities. Cotisations sociales — social charges paid by businesses and workers in France, funding healthcare, pensions, unemployment benefit and more. CAF — the French family allowance fund, providing housing aid, apprenticeship support and other benefits. Mairie — the town hall; local planning and governance authority. Connect: Facebook | Instagram Subscribe to the newsletter: www.frenchrenodiaries.com Email: [email protected]