Notice Letter Template for Tenants in Spain

If you are a tenant in Spain and plan to terminate a rental agreement, sending a clear notice letter helps protect your rights and reduce risks. In this article I explain when you can withdraw, what notice period is usually required, how to calculate possible penalties or deposit deductions and what documentation to keep. I include a template letter you can adapt, practical steps to notify the landlord and advice if a dispute or an eviction procedure arises. I also reference the Urban Leases Act to guide you on obligations and deadlines^[1] and point to official resources for procedures and enquiries. If you need local help, seek municipal services or tenant organizations.

What is withdrawal and when to apply it?

Withdrawal is the tenant's decision to end the contract before the scheduled date by mutual agreement or under a right provided by law. Contracts with specific clauses usually state the notice period and possible penalties. Before sending the letter, check your contract for clauses on deadlines, deposits and property handover.

Deadlines and notice period

The notice period is the time you must give the landlord before leaving. If the contract does not specify it, negotiate a reasonable period and document the agreement in writing.

• Check the contract to see if it requires a notice period of days or months.
• If there is no clause, offer a reasonable notice (for example, 30 days) to facilitate handover.
• Send the notification in writing and keep proof of postage or delivery.

Penalties, deposit and deductions

Penalties depend on what is agreed in the contract and on applicable law. The deposit may be withheld for damages or unpaid rent; document the property's condition at handover and request a signed inventory when appropriate.

• Check whether the contract provides for a monetary penalty for early termination.
• Take photos and keep evidence of the condition to prevent unjustified deposit withholdings.
• If the landlord deducts amounts, ask for a written breakdown and supporting receipts.

Template notice letter

I provide a sample text you can adapt. Fill in your details, the property address, the proposed handover date and the chosen delivery method.

Sender name: [Name and ID]
Sender address: [Full address]
Landlord name: [Name]
Property address: [Address]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]

Subject: Notice of termination of the tenancy agreement

I hereby notify my intention to terminate the tenancy agreement for the above property, effective from [handover date]. I comply with the agreed notice period of [number] days and request we arrange the handover of keys and the inspection of the property. Please confirm receipt of this notice in writing and inform me about the procedure for the return of the deposit.

Sincerely,
[Signature and name]

What to do if there is a dispute or eviction

If the landlord refuses the withdrawal or claims amounts, negotiate in writing and request supporting documents. In case of legal claims, civil and eviction procedures fall under the Courts of First Instance; check the available defense routes and procedural deadlines^[2].

Frequently asked questions

How much notice should I give?

It depends on the contract; if it does not regulate it, offer a reasonable period (for example, 30 days) and document the agreement in writing.

Can I be charged a penalty for withdrawing?

Only if the contract provides it or there is an agreement; any deduction must be justified and supported by invoices or estimates.

What evidence should I keep?

Keep the sent letter, receipt proofs, photos of the property at handover, communications with the landlord and payment receipts.

How to

1. Draft the letter with your details, the property address and the proposed handover date.
2. Send the notice by certified mail, burofax or hand-delivery with signed receipt.
3. Keep copies, receipts and photos of the property; request a joint inventory or inspection.
4. If there is a dispute, seek advice and consider filing a civil claim at the competent Court.

Key takeaways

• Check your contract before notifying withdrawal.
• Offer and document a reasonable notice even if it is not stipulated.
• Always keep proof of delivery and the property's condition.

Help and support / Resources

• [1] BOE - Ley 29/1994, de Arrendamientos Urbanos (consolidated text)
• [2] Ministry of Justice - Information and procedures
• [3] General Council of the Judiciary - Procedural information

1. [1] BOE - Ley 29/1994, de Arrendamientos Urbanos (consolidated text)
2. [2] Ministry of Justice - Information and procedures