Step 31 of 48 Phase 4: Negotiate & Sign Arras
4.8 Get A Property Survey
Arrange a property survey to identify any issues before committing to buy.
Surveys in Spain
- Surveys are less common in Spain than in other countries
- The bank will do a valuation (tasación) for the mortgage
- Independent surveys are optional but recommended for older properties
- Check for structural issues, damp, and electrical/plumbing condition
Pro Tips
- Consider a technical survey (informe técnico) for older properties
- Check the energy certificate — poor ratings may indicate issues
- Ask if any works have been done without permits
- In rural areas, verify boundaries match official records
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying solely on the bank's valuation (tasación) — it's for lending, not condition
- Not checking if there is illegal construction (sin licencia)
- Ignoring signs of damp or structural movement
- Skipping a survey for properties built before 1980