Crossword Genius

Property in France needing gas and water there? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chateau

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'property in france' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'gas and water there?' is the wordplay.
'gas' becomes 'chat' (both can mean to talk).
'and' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'water there?' becomes 'eau' (I have seen 'French water ' mean 'eau' so perhaps 'water' could also mean 'eau'. I am not sure about the 'there?' bit.).
'chat'+'eau'='CHATEAU'

'needing' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chateau that I've seen before include "Impressive dwelling in France" , "French country home" , "French castle or manor" , "Country residence" , "French stately home" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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