Understand the payments, paperwork and checks before you commit to a home in Spain.
Professional liability cover is not automatically deposit protection. Ask who is insured, which activities the policy covers and how claims are handled. If someone promises protection for money held on your behalf, request the separate terms explaining exactly what is protected and by whom.
Read the articleRequest written terms identifying the recipient, purpose, refund conditions and any named guarantee provider. Check whether the agency holds the funds or passes them to the landlord. Do not assume professional membership or liability insurance amounts to a guarantee that every reservation payment will be returned.
Read the articleFor tenancies governed by the LAU housing provisions, management and contract formalisation costs cannot be passed to tenants, directly or indirectly. Ask for an itemised payment schedule and an explanation of any optional service. Check the applicable tenancy rules rather than relying only on the contract’s label.
Read the articleFor contracts concluded from 24 January 2026, Andalucía no longer requires administrative lodging of the fianza. Earlier contracts remain subject to the previous requirement. Tenants still owe the statutory fianza under the LAU; keep a receipt and written terms covering who holds it and its return.
Read the articleA nota simple gives information about the registered property, ownership and registered rights or restrictions. It does not replace checks on the home’s condition, applicable occupancy documentation or suitability for your intended tenancy. Compare it with the property and contract, and ask about any unexplained differences.
Read the articleCompare the proposed landlord with current ownership information, then ask for evidence of any representative’s authority or other right to let. Check that the property, contract and payment recipient are consistent. Resolve discrepancies through an independently verified contact before sending money.
Read the articleExpect clear information about their role, services, charges, document handling and complaints process. Ask what checks they have completed and get important promises in writing. If they claim professional membership, verify the named body and current status rather than assuming a course certificate proves membership.
Read the articleCheck the tenancy purpose, duration, renewal and exit terms, rent updates, payment breakdown, repair arrangements and inventory. Record agreed repairs in writing. Make sure you understand the wording and obtain independent advice where needed; a signed clause is not automatically valid just because an agent included it.
Read the articleYes. In Andalucía, consumer complaints about an agency can use the official complaints process regardless of Colegio membership. Keep a factual timeline and supporting evidence. Colegio procedures may provide an additional route for members, while a dispute with a private landlord may require a different approach.
Read the articleAsk for the exact qualification or membership, the issuing organisation and any reference number. Verify the claim directly with that body. Check training, current professional membership, regional registration where relevant and insurance separately; evidence of one does not automatically establish the others.
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