Just like back home, when you buy a property in Spain there are various organisations, companies and official bodies you will need to contact to make sure all of the day-to-day issues involved in owning and living in your property are taken care of.
The following is a guide to some of the key people you need to contact to help you avoid any issues after you buy a Spanish property.
Residents Association (Comunidad de Propietarios)
If you are buying in a complex, then there will be a Community of Owners. We would need to make sure that all Community charges have been paid up to date before you buy.
Water and Electricity
It is important to check that there is a connection and that the charges are paid up to date.
If you are buying a new property we will need to check that the property has the appropriate Habitation Certificate which allows the services to be connected.
Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad)
Almost all land and properties in Spain are now registered.
We would obtain a search at the local Land Registry for office copy entries (Nota Simple) of the previous owner’s deed which will show who the registered owner is and whether there are any charges on the title.
Town Hall (Ayuntamiento)
Checks should be made at the Town Hall to make sure that the Council Tax (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles – IBI) has been paid up to date. It is also possible to obtain a certificate from the Town Hall showing that the property has the necessary building permit and complies with local planning and building regulations.
Moving in
Just like back home you will need to arrange to have the utilities and services in your name and often have to set up a direct debit at your Spanish bank to pay the bills. You also need to inform the local Council and the Residents Association that you own the property
Need help buying property in Spain?
Our UK-based team of property lawyers are highly experienced in helping clients to buy and sell property in Spanish, as well as handling a whole range of related issues, such as advice on Wills and inheritance.
With a thorough understanding of both UK and Spanish law, we can provide clear, reliable legal guidance in plain English, giving you the confidence to deal effectively with property in Spain.
Call: 01438 840 258 Email: admin@judicaregroup.com