Documents to File an OMIC Complaint for Tenants in Spain
If you are a tenant in Spain and need to file a complaint with the OMIC, first gather the basic documents: your DNI or NIE, the rental agreement and payment receipts for rent or deposit. Add any communications with the landlord (email, messages), photos or videos showing damage or lack of services and repair estimates or invoices. The OMIC provides consumer guidance and mediation, but good documentation speeds up the process and increases the chances of a solution. In this article I explain step by step what to submit, how to organize evidence and which deadlines to respect to protect your rights as a tenant in Spain.
What documents you need
- ID document: copy of the tenant's DNI or NIE.
- Rental agreement: signed copy and any annexes or amendments.
- Receipts and proof of payment: rent receipts, transfer confirmations and deposit proof.
- Communications with the landlord: emails, text messages and letters showing complaints or responses.
- Photos and videos: visual evidence of damage, damp, lack of heating or habitability issues.
- Estimates and invoices: repair estimates and invoices paid for urgent repairs.
- Inventory and delivery receipts: if there is an entry/exit inventory or handover report, include it.
- Other documents: previous complaints, incident reports or technical reports if available.
Organize documents by date and create a clear digital copy.
Always include a brief chronological summary of events: dates, people contacted and responses received. If the claim concerns a rent increase, deposit retention or lack of repairs, add the specific evidence that supports it and keep the originals.
What to expect from processing
The OMIC usually offers local guidance and mediation; in some cases it will channel the claim to municipal consumer services or propose mediation between the parties. If there is no resolution through mediation, the judicial route (Court of First Instance) may be necessary for economic claims or evictions, following applicable regulations such as the LAU.[1]
Respond to any OMIC requests on time to avoid losing resolution options.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the OMIC?
- The Municipal Consumer Information Office (OMIC) provides advice, information and mediation on consumer matters at the local level.
- How long does a claim take?
- Timelines vary by municipality; the OMIC will inform you of the estimated timeframe and the steps to follow.
- Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint with the OMIC?
- Filing with the OMIC usually does not require a lawyer, but for court actions it may be necessary or advisable to have legal assistance.
How to file a complaint with the OMIC
- Gather all documents and make digital copies.
- Contact your municipal OMIC to request an appointment or information about the local procedure.
- Complete the complaint form or write a clear description of the facts with dates and attached evidence.
- Submit the complaint to the OMIC in person, by mail or through the channel indicated by your city council.
- Attend mediation if the OMIC proposes it; bring all organized evidence.
- If there is no solution, consider the judicial route at the Court of First Instance and ask for information about deadlines and requirements.[2]
Keeping digital and original copies improves outcomes in mediation and court.
Key points
- Collect ID, contract and receipts to support your claim.
- Document damages with photos, estimates and invoices.
- Contact the OMIC promptly and follow local instructions.
Help and support / Resources
- Law 29/1994 on Urban Leases (BOE)
- Ministry of Justice - Information on judicial bodies
- Judiciary - Guides and resources
