Over 12 million homes in France are at risk due to a climate-driven phenomenon known as clay shrinkage-swelling, or RGA (Retrait-Gonflement des Argiles). This process causes soil to contract during droughts and expand during heavy rains, destabilizing home foundations.
The French Ministry of Ecological Transition reports that 54% of detached houses are affected, with damages averaging €1 billion annually under the national disaster relief program. High-risk departments include Allier, Dordogne, Nord, and Tarn-et-Garonne, among others.
Scientists link worsening cycles of drought and flooding to global warming. In 2025, France endured its third hottest summer on record, followed by unprecedented rainfall through early 2026. These extremes strain aging infrastructure, especially homes built from concrete blocks since the 1970s.
To mitigate future damage, the government has launched the Argile prevention fund to assess vulnerabilities and support preventative renovations.