French builders & artisans' professionnal body called CAPEB (Confédération de l'Artisanat et des Petites Entreprises du Bâtiment) has strongly been lobbying the French Government in order for auto-entrepreneurs to become liable to VAT!
A few austerity measures will be announced by the French Government on Monday 7th November. Builders are fearing that the actual VAT rate of 5.5% applied to restoration work, will be increased to 7% (very likely). Artisans already perceived auto-entrepreneurs as unfair competition, so the idea that VAT will be increased has infuriated them.
I would be very surprised if VAT was to be introduced for auto-entrepreneurs, but the lobbying seems to be very strong.
You can read more about this controversy in Les Echos . I will keep you posted on any new charges as and when they happen.