Tenant copies of security deposit in Spain
As a tenant in Spain, it is common to need a copy of the deposit receipt when the lease ends or if there is a dispute over deductions. This guide explains, in plain language, which documents to collect, how to formally request the copy from the landlord, what deadlines and evidence are useful, and what steps to take if they do not provide it. It includes request templates, recommendations for keeping evidence, and guidance on judicial and administrative remedies. You do not need to be a lawyer to understand it: you will find practical steps you can apply today and references to the regulations and competent courts in Spain to support you in a deposit dispute.
Which documents you need
Before requesting the deposit copy, gather the documents that prove your contractual relationship and payments made. Having a complete package speeds up the response and strengthens your position if there is a dispute.
- Signed lease agreement and any annexes.
- Receipts or proof of payment for the deposit and rent receipts.
- Written communications with the landlord (email, messages, burofax).
- Photos or condition reports of the property on move-in and move-out.
How to request the deposit copy
The request should be clear, in writing and with proof of sending. State basic data: lease, dates, amount deposited and which specific document you request (deposit receipt, bank entry slip or signed proof).
- Contact the landlord in writing (email and, if appropriate, burofax).
- Request a signed copy or a receipt from the institution where the deposit was placed.
- Set a reasonable deadline for response (for example, 15 calendar days).
Useful evidence
In addition to the deposit copy, keep payment receipts, communications and any invoices for repairs the landlord intends to deduct.
- Deposit and rent payment receipts.
- Date-stamped photos of the property's condition.
- Repair estimates and invoices, if any.
What to do if they do not provide the copy
If the landlord does not reply, send a second claim with information about next actions: a claim in the Juzgado de Primera Instancia or request mediation if a local service exists. Keep all documentation and proof of sending.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which documents exactly should I request?
- Request the deposit bank entry slip, a signed copy of the receipt and any contract or annex related to the deposit.
- How long does the landlord have to respond?
- There is no single deadline applicable to all regions, but setting 15 calendar days in your request is practical; if there is no response you may pursue judicial remedies.
- Can I sue if they do not give me the copy?
- Yes; if no agreement is reached, the route is the Juzgado de Primera Instancia to claim return of the deposit, the copy, or amounts wrongly withheld.
How-To
- Gather the contract, receipts, photos and communications as evidence.
- Send a written request to the landlord asking for the deposit proof copy.
- Record the sending (registered mail or burofax) and keep the receipt.
- If there is no reply, attempt mediation or local consumer advice.
- As a last resort, file a claim at the Juzgado de Primera Instancia with all documentation.
Help and Support
- BOE - Consolidated legal texts
- Ministry of Justice - Civil procedures
- Poder Judicial - Courts information
