Repair Documentation for Tenants in Spain
If you are a tenant in Spain and you lack the necessary documentation for repairs to be carried out in the dwelling, it is important to act calmly and follow clear steps. First document the problems (photos, messages and dates) and communicate the repair request in writing to the landlord. With evidence and formal communication, you can demand responsibility for maintenance and costs according to the Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos[1] and the Civil Code. If the owner does not respond, there are administrative and judicial routes to force interventions or claim compensation before the Court of First Instance[2].
What documentation to gather
- Photos and dated videos showing the problem and its evolution (photo).
- Written messages, emails and conversations with the landlord (evidence).
- Lease agreement and relevant clauses (form).
- Payment receipts and proof of expenses that show payments made (rent).
- Technical reports or repair estimates when possible (repair).
How to notify the landlord
Written communication is key: send a notice detailing the damage, dates and the repair request. Keep proof of sending (certified mail, burofax or email with read receipt). Include a reasonable deadline for action and offer access for repairs.
What to include in the notice
- Clear description of the problem and its severity (form).
- List of attached evidence: photos, videos and messages (evidence).
- Deadline for repair indicated in days (calendar).
What to do if the landlord does not act
If there is no response, consider these options: file a formal claim by burofax, request mediation or file a lawsuit in the Court of First Instance. Consider costs, deadlines and the need for technical evidence to prove lack of habitability or breach.
Evidence and expert reports
In many cases a technical or expert report strengthens the claim. Request a written estimate and keep the invoice if you pay for an inspection. In judicial proceedings, the report can be decisive.
Preguntas frecuentes
- ¿Qué plazo debo dar al arrendador para reparar?
- Debe ser un plazo razonable según la gravedad; documenta la fecha de notificación y la respuesta o la falta de ella.
- ¿Puedo pagar la reparación y descontarla del alquiler?
- Solo en circunstancias concretas y con pruebas; este paso puede generar disputa y conviene asesorarse antes.
- ¿Qué juzgado corresponde para reclamar?
- Las reclamaciones civiles por alquiler se tramitan en el Juzgado de Primera Instancia del domicilio de la finca.
Cómo hacerlo
- Document the problem with photos, videos and dates (evidence).
- Send a written notice to the landlord detailing the request (form).
- Request a technical estimate if the cause or scope of the damage is in doubt (repair).
- If there is no response, seek mediation or file a claim in the Court of First Instance (court).
Key takeaways
- Always document every incident with dates and visual proof.
- Communicate in writing and keep delivery receipts.
- Know judicial routes and deadlines before costly actions.
