Property Survey in Spain: Do You Need One Before Buying?

Property Survey in Spain: Do You Need One Before Buying?

In the UK and other countries, a property survey is standard practice. In Spain, it is not. But should you get one anyway? Here is what you need to know about surveys, valuations, and technical inspections in Spain.

Bank Valuation vs Property Survey: What Is the Difference?

Bank valuation (tasacion) If you are taking a mortgage, the bank will send a certified valuer to assess the property market value. This is a brief visit (often 15-30 minutes) that confirms the property exists, checks basic measurements, and assigns a market value. It does NOT check for structural defects, damp, electrical problems, plumbing issues, or illegal extensions.

Technical inspection (informe tecnico) This is the closest equivalent to a UK building survey. A qualified architect or technical architect inspects the property thoroughly, checking the structure, roof, walls, foundations, electrical installation, plumbing, damp, drainage, and compliance with building regulations. They produce a detailed report highlighting any defects or concerns.

When You Definitely Need a Survey

Older properties (pre-1990). Older buildings on the Costa Blanca may have structural issues, outdated electrical wiring (often not earthed), old plumbing, asbestos roofing materials, or subsidence problems.

Rural fincas and country houses. Properties outside urban areas often have issues with water supply, septic tanks, access rights, land boundaries, and building legality. Many rural properties have extensions or modifications that were never properly licensed.

Properties with extensions or pools. Any property that has been modified since it was originally built should be checked to ensure the modifications are legally registered and comply with building regulations.

Properties near the coast. The Spanish Coastal Law (Ley de Costas) restricts building within certain distances of the sea. Properties too close to the shore face demolition orders or restrictions on renovation.

Properties on urbanisations with known problems. Some developments on the Costa Blanca have known issues with foundations, drainage, or shared infrastructure. Local knowledge is essential.

What Does a Technical Inspection Cover?

How Much Does a Property Survey Cost in Spain?

A basic technical inspection for an apartment typically costs between 300 and 500 euros. For a villa or finca, expect to pay 500 to 1,000 euros depending on the size and complexity. A comprehensive structural report by a qualified architect may cost more but can save you thousands by identifying problems before you buy.

What Your Lawyer Checks (Legal Due Diligence)

While a surveyor checks the physical condition, your lawyer checks the legal condition of the property. This includes: verifying ownership in the Land Registry, checking for debts and charges, confirming planning permissions and building licences, checking that the property description matches reality, verifying the Energy Performance Certificate, and confirming there are no outstanding community fees or IBI debts. Together, the technical inspection and legal due diligence give you a complete picture of what you are buying.

Areas We Serve

We assist property buyers with legal due diligence across the Costa Blanca, including Javea (Xabia), Moraira, Denia, Altea, and the wider Valencian Community. We can recommend trusted independent surveyors and architects in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a property survey mandatory in Spain?

No. There is no legal requirement to have a survey before buying property in Spain. However, we strongly recommend an independent technical inspection, especially for older properties, rural fincas, or any property with modifications.

Is a bank valuation the same as a survey?

No. A bank valuation only assesses market value. It does not check for structural defects, damp, electrical problems, or building legality. You need a separate technical inspection for that.

Who can carry out a property survey in Spain?

A qualified architect (arquitecto) or technical architect (arquitecto tecnico / aparejador) can carry out a comprehensive property inspection. Some international surveying firms also operate in Spain, offering surveys in English.

Can I pull out of a purchase if the survey finds problems?

It depends on what stage you are at. If you have only paid a reservation deposit, you may be able to withdraw. If you have signed a private purchase contract (contrato de arras), withdrawing means losing your deposit unless the contract includes a survey clause. This is why we recommend getting the survey done before signing any binding contract.

What if the property has illegal extensions?

Illegal extensions are common on the Costa Blanca. They may be legalisable under certain conditions, or they may not. Your lawyer should check the planning status before you proceed. Buying a property with illegal extensions can affect your ability to sell it later and may cause problems with insurance.