An unexpected new bill is coming for many homeowners, some are already receiving it

Many homeowners will have to pay a new bill in the coming months.

Homeowners didn't see it coming. A new (small) bill awaits many of them in the coming months or years. While there's been a lot of talk lately about energy renovations, energy performance certificates (DPEs), tax increases, and rent controls, a new expense will be added to the long list of charges already borne by those who own property.

Not everyone is affected. Only a small portion—albeit a significant one—of apartment owners will have to dig into their pockets. While this change isn't mandatory, it is highly recommended because it affects... the building's front door. An unexpected change is about to take effect.

In buildings, the entry system is the same everywhere: either a code is entered, or a Vigik badge is "beeped" to open the door and access the entrance hall. In addition to residents, several people can access this space using a similar badge: the Post Office, the police/gendarmerie, delivery drivers, telephone operators, press carriers, etc.

These professionals' badges don't open everything. In fact, two separate systems are integrated into the intercom: one for detecting residents' badges, and one for detecting professionals' badges. It's the latter that will soon need to be updated in approximately 500,000 condominiums across France.

"The current system was designed in the 1990s, with security protocols that were starting to get outdated, technology that was easily copied, and at a time when building connectivity was limited," said Sylvain Lepetit, president of the Vigik association, before continuing: "This system needed to be upgraded to achieve higher levels of security."

A new system has thus been developed, with "a level of security comparable to contactless payment." Furthermore, it will now be connected so that the property manager can manage access to all its buildings remotely. The implementation of this new system, called "Vigik+," will therefore require the intervention of a professional. "It doesn't require changing the entire intercom and electric lock system, just the reading head," says Sylvain Lepetit. Its implementation began nearly a year ago with the start of Vigik+ marketing in May 2024.

This adjustment is expected to cost "around a hundred euros" - depending on the size of the building and the number of intercoms - to be shared among all co-owners. While it is not mandatory, it must be effective no later than January ¹ , 2030, otherwise "professionals will no longer be able to enter the building." This means no more mail or parcel delivery or no fire brigade intervention, for example. As for the current professional badges, these will be replaced and new ones put into circulation starting in 2026.