OMIC complaints for tenants in Spain

As a tenant in Spain, it is common to face rental issues, unexpected increases, repairs that never arrive, or unresolved communications with the landlord. If you want to complain, the OMIC (Municipal Consumer Information Office) can be a useful first step before going to court: it offers mediation and guidance on rental rights, necessary documentation and deadlines. This guide explains how to prepare your complaint, which documents to bring, how to write a clear request and when it may be better to go to the Court of First Instance. You will also find official resources and concrete steps to protect your home and avoid common mistakes during the process in Spain.

Preparation: what to gather before going to OMIC

Before going to the OMIC, it is advisable to collect evidence and organize information. An orderly complaint increases the chances of mediation and a quick solution.

• Contracts, receipts and proof of rent payments.
• Photos or videos showing the breakdown or habitability issue.
• Written communications sent to the landlord (emails, certified mail or letters).
• Receipts for expenses you claim (invoices, repair estimates).

How to file the complaint at OMIC

The OMIC usually offers complaint reception, guidance on rights and, in many cases, mediation services. If mediation works, an agreement is signed; if not, the OMIC can advise on the judicial or administrative route.

1. Fill in the municipal complaint form or submit a letter explaining the facts and the remedy you request.
2. Attach copies of the collected documents and evidence (contract, receipts, photos).
3. Request an appointment or registration to record the submission and ask for written record of the case number.
4. Request mediation if the OMIC offers it and accept attempts at agreement to avoid lengthy procedures.

Deadlines and possible next steps

If mediation does not provide a solution, the next route may be to claim at the Court of First Instance or activate administrative procedures depending on the matter (consumer, housing). Consider deadlines to file judicial claims and consult the LAU when applicable.^[1]

What to avoid when filing a complaint

• Do not delay documentation: keep dates and communications from the first incident.
• Do not use force or hinder lawful access, as it may harm your case.
• Do not rely on verbal solutions without written evidence.

Frequently asked questions

Can the OMIC force the landlord to repair the dwelling?

The OMIC is not a court; it can mediate and recommend solutions, but it does not replace the Court. If there is no agreement, the judicial route may be necessary.

What deadline do I have to complain to the OMIC?

It depends on the municipality and the matter; submit the complaint as soon as possible and request written proof of registration.

Do I need a lawyer to go to the OMIC?

For the OMIC it is not mandatory, but if the dispute escalates to court, it may be advisable to have legal advice specialized in leases.

How to file a complaint step by step

1. Gather contract, receipts and photographic evidence of the problem.
2. Draft a clear letter with facts, dates and the remedy you request.
3. Submit the documentation at the OMIC by registry or appointment and ask for the case number.
4. Attend mediation if convened by the OMIC and bring copies of everything.
5. If there is no agreement, request the OMIC report and consider claiming at the Court of First Instance.^[2]

Key points

• Document everything from day one to strengthen the complaint.
• Seek mediation as a quick solution before long processes.
• Keep written records and case numbers.

Help and resources

• [1] BOE - Consolidated text of Law 29/1994, Urban Leases
• [2] Ministry of Justice - Information on courts and procedures
• Judicial Council - Resources and guides

1. [1] BOE - Texto consolidado Ley 29/1994, Arrendamientos Urbanos
2. [2] Ministerio de Justicia - Información sobre juzgados y procedimientos