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The Absence of a Signature on the Descriptive Notice
Droit Immobilier

The Absence of a Signature on the Descriptive Notice

📅 Decision of 23 April 1986🔄 Updated on 16 October 2026⚖️ Cour de cassation👁️ 32 views📖 2 min read

The absence of a signature on the descriptive notice, which is among the contractual documents required in a contract for the construction of an individual house, does not constitute a ground for nullity of that contract.

Reference decision: cc • No. 84-17.600 • 1986-04-23 • Consult the decision →

This decision provides important insight into your property law. Here is what it changes for you.

The situation

The absence of a signature on the descriptive notice, which is among the contractual documents required in a contract for the construction of an individual house, does not constitute a ground for nullity of that contract.

What the law says

This decision confirms the fundamental principles of property law.

Points to remember

  • Strictly comply with the statutory time limits for appeals
  • Keep all supporting documents (title deeds, instruments, correspondence)
  • Anticipate: preventive advice always costs less than litigation

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📌 Does this apply to your situation? Maître Cécile Zakine, French real estate lawyer, practises throughout France.
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Legal information

  • Number: 84-17.600
  • Court: Cour de cassation
  • Decision of: 23 April 1986

Keywords

droit immobilierjurisprudenceimmobilier

Practical use cases

1

First-time buyer cannot void unsigned CCMI notice

Sophie, a first-time buyer in Bordeaux, signed a contract for construction of an individual house (CCMI) for €260,000 in March 2024. The descriptive notice detailing materials and specifications was not signed by the builder. Six months later, Sophie wants to withdraw from the contract, claiming it is void due to this missing signature.

Practical application:

The 1986 Court of Cassation decision confirms that absence of signature on the descriptive notice does not make the CCMI null. Sophie cannot cancel the contract on this ground alone. She should continue with the project, but may inspect the notice and challenge any discrepancies through other legal channels, such as requesting corrections or claiming for non-conformity if works differ. Keep all correspondence and consult a property lawyer before taking further action.

2

Builder enforces CCMI despite unsigned descriptive notice

Marc, a builder in Lyon, completed a CCMI for a client in Montpellier for €310,000. The client, a property developer, now refuses to pay the final instalment, arguing the contract is null because the descriptive notice was never signed. This has delayed the handover by three months.

Practical application:

This case law establishes that the unsigned descriptive notice does not trigger nullity. Marc can rely on this decision to enforce the contract and demand payment from the client. He should formally respond in writing citing the 1986 ruling, and if necessary, initiate legal proceedings for breach of contract. Keeping a copy of the signed main contract and all related documents will strengthen his position.

3

Landlord cannot escape CCMI over missing signature

Jean, a landlord in Marseille, signed a CCMI to build a two-unit rental property for €220,000. The descriptive notice was not signed by the construction company. After four months, Jean wants to cancel because his financing was refused, and he argues the contract is void based on the missing signature.

Practical application:

The decision means Jean cannot use the unsigned descriptive notice as a ground for nullity to escape the contract. He remains legally bound unless he can prove another valid reason for cancellation, such as a cooling-off period breach or a serious defect. Jean should consult a French property lawyer immediately to review the contract and explore options like negotiating a mutual termination or finding alternative financing.

Maître Cécile Zakine

About the author

Maître Cécile Zakine — Lawyer at the Alpes-Maritimes Bar, Doctor of Law. Every article in this magazine is based on the analysis of a real court decision, commented and put into perspective by Maître Zakine’s team.

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Disclaimer: The analysis presented on this site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalised legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, contact a qualified lawyer.

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