Habitation Certificate in Spain: What It Is and How to Get It

7 January, 2025 | Antonio Beltrán

Introduction

If you’re planning to buy a property in Spain, the Habitation Certificate (Cédula de Habitabilidad) is one of the essential documents you need to understand. This official certificate confirms that a property meets the minimum requirements for living, such as adequate space, ventilation, and basic utilities.

Having a valid habitation certificate is crucial for:

• Finalizing a property purchase: Without this document, notaries may refuse to complete the sale.
• Connecting essential utilities: Services like water, electricity, and gas require a valid certificate to be activated.
• Ensuring legal compliance after renovations: If the property has undergone modifications, a new certificate may be required to certify it remains suitable for habitation.

Failing to have this document in place can lead to delays, legal complications, and additional costs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the habitation certificate, including where it’s required, how to get it, and how to check if the property already has one.

What Is the Habitation Certificate?

The Habitation Certificate is an official document issued by the local authorities that certifies a property meets the legal standards to be used as a residence. These standards vary slightly across Spain but generally include:

• Minimum living space.
• Proper ventilation and lighting.
• Access to water, electricity, and sanitation systems.
• Structural safety.

This certificate is essential for ensuring that a property is legally fit for living and can be a requirement for buying, selling, or renting out real estate.

Where Is the Habitation Certificate Required?

Not all regions in Spain mandate a habitation certificate. However, it is compulsory in several autonomous communities, including:

• Catalonia
• Balearic Islands
• Murcia
• La Rioja
• Navarra
• Cantabria

In regions where it’s not legally required, having this certificate can still make utility connections or property sales smoother.

How to Obtain the Habitation Certificate

1. Hire a certified technician
   You will need a licensed architect or technical architect to inspect the property and confirm it meets the required standards. They will prepare a technical report (certificado de habitabilidad).
2. Submit the application
   The application must be filed with the local government office, usually through the town hall or the regional housing department.
3. Pay the administrative fee
   Fees vary by region but are typically affordable, ranging from €50 to €150.
4. Processing time
   Authorities usually take between 15 days and a month to process your application and issue the certificate.

How to Check If a Property Has a Habitation Certificate

If you’re buying a property, it’s important to confirm whether it already has a valid habitation certificate. You can:

• Ask the current owner: The seller should provide you with a copy of the certificate.
• Check with the town hall: Local government offices may keep records of certificates issued for the property.
• Consult your lawyer or real estate agent: They can assist in verifying the documentation during the purchasing process.

What to Do If the Property Lacks a Certificate

If the property does not have a valid habitation certificate, here are the steps to take:

1. Hire a professional: An architect or technical architect can inspect the property and issue the necessary technical report.
2. Make necessary adjustments: If the property does not meet the standards, renovations may be required before applying for the certificate.
3. File the application: Submit the technical report along with other required documents to the relevant local authority.

Conclusion

The Habitation Certificate is a vital document when buying property in Spain, especially if you want to avoid complications during the purchasing process or utility connections. Understanding its importance and ensuring the property you’re buying has this certification will save you time, money, and potential legal issues.

Whether you’re buying a vacation home, relocating, or investing in Spanish real estate, don’t overlook this essential step.