Urban planning & development

We provide an expert and professional service for all your building and urban planning issues.

When purchasing a new home in Spain, whether it’s a resale or a new-build property, you will most likely want to carry out some kind of renovation or restoration building work.

Maybe you want to install a swimming pool, build a conservatory, increase the height of your garden walls or even extend your kitchen. That’s not a problem, as long as you are granted official permission from the town hall.

Many people are ignorant of the fact that to carry out any type of construction work in their home requires permission from the Community of Property Owners and then, more formally, from the Ayuntamiento (the town council).

Failure to do so could result in a hefty fine or even being made to return the property to its previous condition. Gone are the days where you can just build, remove, increase or construct whatever you like and get away with it. Town halls are clamping down on illegal building. So before you do anything,it’s best to do research to find out what licenses and permissions are required and then engage the services of a professional. 

There are two types of permits in Spain for building work:

Obra Mayor (Major Work)

This applies to big jobs and basically anything that will change the structure of a house by extending it or making it bigger in any way. This could include erecting or demolishing load-bearing walls, building an extension, conservatory or swimming pool or any new building.

Obra Menor (Minor Work)

This applies to any job that does not change any external wall openings, walls, structure, roofs or the interior layout of a building. You don’t need a license for this type of work but you must communicate your plans to the Town Hall and pay the corresponding fees. 
It is also important to note two things. Firstly, you may not always be granted permission to carry out the work that you had planned. This could be for a variety of reasons. Secondly, a builder may inform you that he has the correct license to carry out the work when he hasn’t. It is always best to contract the services of a reputable and professional company.

If you are in any doubt on any building or construction-related matters, come and see us or give us a call. Maybe you already have a problem and don’t know how to solve it. Urban planning is our speciality. We speak your language and are always happy to help.