Eviction for contract end: tenant guide Spain

If you are a tenant in Spain facing an eviction for contract end, this text explains in a clear and practical way what rights you have and what steps to follow. Knowing the deadlines, reviewing the lease and documenting communications with the landlord can make a difference. We also describe when the owner can claim the property, how eviction is notified and what judicial or administrative resources you can use. The guide avoids jargon and offers concrete actions: gather evidence, seek free advice and prepare a response within deadlines. If you need urgent help, we include official links to consult the Urban Leases Act and file remedies with civil courts.

What is an eviction for contract end

An eviction for contract end occurs when the tenancy reaches the agreed date and the owner requests to recover the property. In these cases the lessor must respect notification requirements and legal deadlines; if not complied with, the procedure can be halted or partly lose effectiveness. Knowing the difference between contract end and non-payment helps choose the right strategy.

Steps the tenant can take

• Review contract dates and clauses (deadline).
• Check whether formal notification was given and how it was delivered (notice).
• Save receipts, messages and photos as evidence (evidence).
• Request legal advice or social services (contact).
• Do not leave the property without advice if you plan to challenge the procedure (move-out).

Documentation and evidence

Gather the lease, payment receipts, communications with the landlord and any termination notice. A clear record of dates and proof of payment makes it easier to respond to an eviction claim. If there were extension offers or verbal agreements, note witnesses and keep messages that support them.

• Signed lease and annexes.
• Receipts and payment proofs.
• Notifications, certified mail and emails (notice).

Judicial procedure and deadlines

If the landlord files an eviction claim, the case is usually heard before the Court of First Instance under the Civil Procedure Act; know the deadlines to respond and the types of precautionary measures. It is also useful to review the Urban Leases Act for rights and exceptions.^[1][2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the owner reclaim the property at the end of the lease?

Yes, if the lease has ended and the landlord has complied with notification requirements, they may request eviction in court.

Do I have the right to automatic extension?

It depends on what is agreed in the contract and the applicable rules; some contracts allow tacit renewals and others do not.

What if I did not receive a formal notification?

Lack of correct notification may invalidate the procedure or give more time to file allegations in court.

How to proceed

1. Read the lease and note key dates (deadline).
2. Collect all evidence: payments, messages and photos (evidence).
3. Contact free legal advice or social services to evaluate options (contact).
4. File a response at the court within the deadline to preserve defense options (notice).
5. Attend hearings and present evidence if the case proceeds (court).

Key takeaways

• Check deadlines and notifications immediately.
• Keep written evidence and receipts to protect your rights.
• Seeking legal advice can change the outcome.

Help and Support

• BOE — Consolidated text of Law 29/1994, Urban Leases
• Ministry of Justice — Information on civil procedures
• Judicial Power — Resources and procedures

1. [1] BOE — Consolidated text of Law 29/1994, Urban Leases
2. [2] Ministry of Justice — Information on civil procedures