Sample Letter for Tenants to Oppose Rent Hikes in Spain

If you are in Spain and the landlord notifies a rent increase you consider improper, this practical guide shows how to act safely. I explain clearly tenants' rights, how to document the increase, which deadlines to respect and how to draft an effective objection letter. I also detail alternatives: negotiate, file an out-of-court complaint or go to court if necessary. You do not need to be a lawyer: follow the steps, keep copies of everything and use the sample letter provided to make a formal record. Acting quickly and with documentation increases your chances of success and protects your housing in Spain.

What you can do if the landlord raises the rent without notice

Faced with a rent increase you consider unjustified, the essential actions are to gather evidence, review the contract and communicate your objection in writing. If the update clause does not permit the increase or notices required by law were not respected, you have grounds to object formally.

• Review the contract and note the rent update clause.
• Keep evidence: messages, photos of documents and payment receipts.
• Send an objection letter by burofax or certified mail and request acknowledgment of receipt.
• If there is no agreement, consider filing a claim in the court of first instance.

Sample objection letter (guidance)

Always include: your details, the landlord's details, contract reference, date of the increase notification, a clear statement of objection and a request for correction or negotiation. State that you reserve legal actions if appropriate and request acknowledgment of receipt.

• Sender and landlord details, and contract reference.
• Date and detail of the communicated increase.
• Reasons for the objection and evidence that supports your case.
• Specific request: annul the increase or negotiate terms.

Deadlines and practical steps

Acting within the deadlines set by the contract or law is crucial. If the increase affects an agreed automatic update, check that the correct index was applied; if the increase is unilateral and not provided for, object as soon as possible and keep acknowledgments.

• Act within the deadlines set by your contract or notify your objection as soon as you receive the communication.
• Keep receipts and communications as evidence.
• Consult consumer guidance services or legal advice if in doubt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I refuse to pay an increase notified by the landlord?

You can formally object and refuse to accept the increase if it is not provided for in the contract or does not comply with applicable law; document the objection and keep evidence.

What is the best way to send the objection letter?

Burofax or certified mail with acknowledgment of receipt is recommended to provide conclusive proof of notification.

When should I go to court?

If there is no agreement or the landlord insists on applying an increase you consider illegal, you can file a civil claim in the court of first instance.

How to

1. Gather all documentation: contract, communications and receipts.
2. Review the update clause and verify whether the increase complies with what was agreed.
3. Draft and send the objection letter by burofax or certified mail requesting acknowledgment.
4. If there is no solution, file a claim in the court of first instance or seek legal advice.

Help and support / Resources

• BOE - Law 29/1994, Urban Leases (consolidated)
• Ministry of Justice - information and forms
• Poder Judicial - procedures and courts

1. [1] BOE - Ley 29/1994, de Arrendamientos Urbanos (consolidated)
2. [2] Ministerio de Justicia - Information and services