Building Inspections in Spain: What You Need to Know About the ITE
If you own or plan to purchase property in Spain, particularly in older urban areas, it’s essential to understand the Inspección Técnica de Edificios (ITE)—Spain’s mandatory building inspection for aging properties. More than just a bureaucratic step, the ITE is key to ensuring the safety, maintenance, and long-term value of your property.
Here’s everything you need to know: what the ITE involves, who it affects, when it’s required, and what happens if your property doesn’t pass the inspection.
What is the ITE?
The ITE is a technical inspection that buildings must undergo periodically once they reach a certain age. Its main purpose is to ensure that buildings remain safe, habitable, and in good condition. It is a legal obligation for many residential buildings and must be carried out by a qualified professional.
This inspection is governed by the Spanish Land and Urban Rehabilitation Law of 2015, along with regional and municipal regulations, which set specific requirements based on location.
Which Buildings Must Undergo the ITE?
The ITE generally applies to multi-family residential buildings that are 50 years old or more, although this age threshold varies depending on the city or region.
For example:
- In Madrid, the first ITE is required at 30 years.
- In Barcelona, it’s required at 45 years.
- In Seville, it’s 20 years.
Some regions, such as the Canary Islands, require the first inspection at 80 years, followed by reviews every 20 years, but apply the obligation more broadly to buildings used for public or commercial purposes (e.g., offices, hospitals, schools).
The inspection is also mandatory for any building seeking government subsidies for renovation, accessibility improvements, or energy efficiency upgrades.
How Often is the ITE Required?
After the first inspection, the ITE typically must be repeated every 10 years, although regional authorities have the flexibility to adjust this interval based on their urban planning policies.
Who Can Carry Out the ITE?
Only qualified professionals, such as architects or technical architects, are authorized to perform the ITE. In some cases, public inspection agencies may also be permitted.
What Does the ITE Cover?
The inspection assesses:
- Structural integrity: including foundations, load-bearing walls, roofs, and facades.
- Safety installations: such as plumbing, electrical systems, and drainage.
- Accessibility: whether the building meets minimum standards for disabled access.
- Energy efficiency: via an official energy performance certificate.
All this information is compiled into the Building Evaluation Report (IEE).
How Much Does an ITE Cost?
There’s no fixed price, as the cost depends on the size, age, and complexity of the building. For smaller or simpler properties, prices may start around €100, but most community inspections for apartment blocks cost significantly more.
Some municipalities collaborate with professional associations to provide lists of certified inspectors and recommended pricing guidelines.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failing to carry out the ITE when required can lead to fines and legal penalties, which vary by municipality. In Madrid, for instance, ignoring an order to inspect can result in escalating fines of €1,000, €2,000, and €3,000, with additional deadlines imposed after each.
Beyond fines, there’s a significant legal and safety risk. If a building is in poor condition and an accident occurs, property owners can be held liable for any resulting damage.
What If the ITE is Unfavorable?
If a building fails the inspection, the report will specify what repairs are needed. Property owners are legally required to carry out these works within a set timeframe. Often, a repair order is issued, which may allow owners to begin renovations without applying for the usual building permits.
Depending on the severity of the issues, a project and technical oversight may be required to complete the repairs.
The ITE is far more than a paperwork requirement—it’s a vital check-up for aging buildings that protects residents, safeguards investments, and preserves the urban landscape. Whether you’re a long-time homeowner or a foreign investor, being informed and proactive about your property’s inspection obligations is a smart move.
