Court notices: tenants' guide in Spain

Receiving a court notice can cause fear and uncertainty, but knowing how to act as a tenant in Spain reduces risks and protects rights. This guide explains clear steps: read the document, calculate deadlines, gather evidence, decide whether to file a response and where to seek help. It is designed for renters who are not legal professionals; we use plain language and practical examples so you can prepare an organized response and preserve legal options. Do not assume fault; act promptly, document everything and seek advice if in doubt.

What to do when you receive a court notice

As soon as you open the notice, check who issued it, the deadline and the type of procedure. Prioritize actions that avoid losing rights and mark dates on a calendar.

• Note important deadlines (days and final date) and calculate the last day to respond.
• Read the content: is it an eviction, enforcement or a requirement? Identify the exact procedure.
• Do not ignore the notice; if you need extra time, request it within the deadline.

Documents and evidence to gather

Gathering documents before acting makes an effective defense easier. Clear and organized copies increase your ability to respond.

• Lease agreement and annexes showing the agreed terms.
• Receipts, transfers and proof of rent payments.
• Photos, videos and communications (messages, emails and recorded deliveries) with the landlord.

How to answer and where to file documents

Before filing any document, clarify the applicable legal basis. The Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos (LAU) and the Civil Code regulate rental rights and obligations in Spain.^[1] Check official forms and templates at the court registry or the justice portal before filing.^[2] When the notice indicates the Court of First Instance, direct your document there and keep the filing receipt.^[3]

• File the response at the Court of First Instance before the deadline indicated.
• Attach a copy of the lease, receipts and all relevant evidence supporting your position.
• If appropriate, request suspension or precautionary measures when there is serious risk to housing.
• Consider seeking legal assistance and use free legal advice services when available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to reply obligatorily to a notice?

Not always, but if the notice sets a deadline to reply or object, failing to do so can mean losing rights; evaluate each case and, if applicable, file a document.

Where do I submit the response?

At the Court indicated in the notice. You can also ask at the court registry or the relevant electronic registry.

Can I request free legal help?

Yes. There are often free legal advice services, bar association resources and municipal offices that support tenants.

How to act

1. Read the notice and note the final deadline for filing a response.
2. Gather the lease, receipts, photos and relevant communications as evidence.
3. File the response or document at the indicated court before the deadline.
4. Seek legal advice and request help from free services if appropriate.
5. Attend the hearing with copies of all documentation and the filing receipt.

Help and Support / Resources

• BOE: Consolidated text of the LAU and related rules
• Ministry of Justice: information and document templates
• Judiciary: information on courts and procedures

1. [1] BOE: Consolidated text of the Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos
2. [2] Ministry of Justice: models and guides for filings
3. [3] Judiciary: information on Courts of First Instance