When a foreigner decides to buy a home in Torrevieja, there is one document they cannot overlook: the certificate of habitability. This certificate, often unknown to those who do not normally reside in Spain, is a fundamental requirement to ensure that a home meets the minimum conditions for habitation.

The certificate of occupancy is a document issued by the regional government certifying that the property meets the basic requirements of safety, health, and soundness. In other words, it ensures that the home has essential elements such as ventilation, electrical installation, plumbing, adequate access, and other factors that allow it to be considered suitable for residence.

Why is this document important in the purchase and sale process? First, because many autonomous communities—such as the Valencian Community, where Torrevieja is located—require this certificate to register utilities such as water, electricity, or gas. Furthermore, in most cases, it is a document required to complete the purchase and sale process before a notary or to register the property.

It’s also a guarantee for the buyer. At A&G Lawyers, we have seen numerous cases of foreigners who, due to lack of knowledge, purchased homes without this certification, subsequently encountering obstacles to renting, renovating, or even legally living in the property.

If the home is new, the developer must provide this document. In the case of second-hand homes, it is the seller’s responsibility to keep it up to date, although in practice, it is often the buyer who must re-process it if it has expired (usually after 10 or 15 years, depending on local regulations).

As real estate law specialists, at A&G Lawyers we assist our clients in verifying all the necessary documents before purchasing a home in Torrevieja or the surrounding area, including the certificate of occupancy, ensuring a safe, legal, and surprise-free purchase.

 

Are you thinking about buying a house in Spain and do not know where to start?

Schedule an appointment with A&G Lawyers and let experts in international real estate law guide you.