Just how many times has one passed one in the street? Sat beside one in a restaurant? Talked to one at a bus stop? Or brushed elbows with one in the vegetable aisle at the supermarket? It's a terrifying thought but not as scary as when one actually comes into your home. Yes, we're talking about rogue traders in the construction business and most of us have a horror story or at the very least a friend with a horror story.

So that you're not taken in by a Rogue d'Azur while building or renovating your Riviera home, resident Interior Designer, Mary Bakke, has drawn up this very helpful list of Do's and Don'ts:

- DO get personal recommendations for reputable contractors in the area. Ask neighbours who they've used if you like the quality of work on their house.
- DO be very specific when stating your expectations for your project. Get a translator if necessary.
- DO get a typed contract from the contractor which locks in the total cost and the approximate time required to complete the project.
- DO have someone explain the contract to you if it is in French and if there is anything in it you don't understand. Make certain every point is included.
- DO make sure that the contractor is registered and guarantees his work.
- DO read the payment terms of the contract carefully.
- DO hire someone to act as an independent project manager and / or designer. A good project manager will save you money. No matter how good, or honest the contractor is, he is looking after his best interests. You need someone to monitor the project and to look after your best interests.

- DON'T go with the lowest estimate. There is a often a very ‘good' reason why it is the lowest.
- DON'T pay the entire amount of the contract until all the work has been completed. The norm is to pay a 40% deposit upfront. Then a second payment of 40% is invoiced part way through the project. The final 20% is paid on completion. Never pay the balance to the contractor until all work is completed and to your total satisfaction.
- DON'T get too emotionally involved in the project if it's an investment property. A good designer will be honest with you as to what will add long term value to the property and what will not.
- DON'T forget to consider the use of the property. If the property is a rental property it will receive more wear and tear. It will be important to use stronger surfaces, good quality sanitary fixtures, appliances and paint. The initial cost may be more, but you will save money long term.

‘The Cote d'Azur. A sunny place for shady people' - Somerset Maugham

Mary Bakke - AZUR ACCOM INTERIOR DESIGN
You can contact Mary by email for further information.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day the French way on the Scandinavian Terrace in Cannes On March 17th Ireland celebrates its national day. Irish people and friends of Ireland join together across the world to celebrate. READ MORE

Exceptional property in Saint Remy de Provence This exceptional and characterful property is situated close to Saint Remy de Provence and is within easy reach of Avignon ... >> READ MORE

Le Freeze Géant - Make like a statue in Place Masséna in Nice Have a free quarter of an hour and nothing to do? Well get yourself along to Place Masséna in Nice on Saturday 30th April ... >> READ MORE