Less expensive than a traditional garage and easy to assemble, this open structure is attracting more and more households in France. But before embarking on this project, did you know that carports are subject to certain tax obligations? It's essential to be well informed before installing the first beam. Follow the guide to avoid unpleasant surprises!
Beware of potential taxes before purchasing your carport
Even if it's open, the carport is subject to several local and national taxes. It's crucial to be aware of them to avoid unpleasant surprises after installation. Depending on its size, the carport must be declared and involves the payment of certain taxes:
- Development tax
- Property tax
- Residence tax
The main factor that will determine whether or not you must declare and pay taxes on your carport is its size. If it exceeds 5 square meters, you will first need to declare its installation to the town hall. If it exceeds 20 square meters, you will need a building permit. Depending on where your home is located, the following taxes may apply:
Development tax
Development tax is a local tax collected by the municipality, the department, and, in Île-de-France, by the region. If your carport exceeds 5 square meters, you will need to make a prior declaration for its installation and be exempt from this tax. It is calculated according to a specific formula that multiplies the taxable surface area of the construction by the annual fixed value per square meter, then multiplies this result by the rate voted by the local authority concerned by the tax. The result will therefore depend on your place of residence.
Currently, the fixed value of outdoor parking areas ranges from €3,000 per space to €6,000. A municipal, departmental, and regional percentage will be applied to this value. The sum of these values represents the total development tax. Some municipalities provide exemptions for small installations or removable carports, so you should check with your town hall if you are eligible. To simplify your procedures and help you prepare, the administration offers an online simulator to estimate the amount of the tax. Property tax: an impact on rental value Property tax is based in part on the cadastral rental value of your property. This value corresponds to the theoretical income that your property could generate if it were rented out. Any improvement or construction likely to increase this value, such as a carport, will therefore have an impact on the calculation of your tax. Please note: even if it is a light and open structure, the carport is taken into account because it is “permanently fixed to the ground” and contributes to improving the conditions of the property.
Once your carport is declared, its surface area is added to the taxable area. If, for example, your house was initially 100 m² and you add a 15 m² carport, your taxable area then becomes 115 m². Rest assured, the tax impact of a carport generally remains moderate compared to other types of construction, but it is still good to take it into account to avoid surprises!
Residence tax: still applicable for second homes
Although the residence tax has been abolished for the majority of main residences, it remains in force for second homes. If you install a carport in your second home, it may generate an increase in the residence tax. It is difficult to provide precise figures on the impact of installing a carport on housing tax. It all depends on several factors: the total area already built, the owner's income, and the local tax rate. To find out more, it is best to contact the town hall of your second home.
The risks of not declaring
If you fail to declare your carport of more than 5 square meters, you run several major risks. First of all, a fixed fine of 150 euros may apply for the simple fact of not having declared this property. This penalty can rise between 1,200 euros and 6,000 euros per square meter of built-up area not declared for urban planning purposes!
And that's not all: in addition to these penalties, you will have to regularize unpaid taxes, to which a surcharge may be added. If you ever want to sell your house, make sure your carport is declared, otherwise the new owner can force you to do so. These penalties apply to carports, but also to any other fixed installation built to extend the built-up area of your house (garden shed, swimming pools, etc.).
Before installing your carport: what should you remember?
Building a carport can improve your daily life, provide effective protection for your vehicles, and add value to your property. Before starting your project:
- Find out about local regulations: Each municipality may require different tax rates and offer possible exemptions.
- Declare your construction quickly: This will avoid penalties or unpleasant recalculations. If you file on time, you can be exempt from property tax for two years.
Installing a carport is a cost-effective decision, but it comes with administrative responsibilities. By taking the time to analyze the tax costs, you can fully enjoy your new installation without any unpleasant surprises.
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