Give yourself room to look
Consider a flexible temporary stay while you view homes. Ask about cancellation terms, the exact address and any documentation needed for address registration. Build in the possibility that a search takes longer than expected.
On rental sites, distinguish an entire home from a room, and a main-residence tenancy from a seasonal stay. A monthly price does not tell you which contract you are being offered.
Understand the contract before the price
| Contract type | What to check |
|---|---|
| Main residence · vivienda habitual | The property will be your regular home. Review duration, rent updates, departure notice and all charges under the applicable residential-tenancy rules. |
| Seasonal · temporada | A genuine temporary purpose matters. Ask for the reason and dates in writing. A contract described as “11 months” is not, by itself, an explanation of your rights. |
| Room or shared home | Confirm your private space, common areas, bills, visitors, notice period and the legal basis of the arrangement. Room contracts can differ from whole-home tenancies. |
What to check at a viewing
- Noise: return in the evening. Check bars, traffic, bins, construction and nearby Fallas activity.
- Air and water: look for damp, leaks, musty smells, adequate ventilation, water pressure and hot water.
- Comfort: test cooling and heating. Ask for recent utility bills and the energy certificate.
- Access: check the entire route from street to apartment, including entrance steps and lift dimensions.
- Daily needs: inspect internet availability at the exact address, storage, work space, laundry and grocery access.
- Conditions: put pet permission, furniture, repairs promised and included charges in writing.
- Location: inspect the official flood maps and ask about the building’s history, basement access and insurance.
Before sending money
Verify the landlord’s identity and right to rent, or the agent’s authority. Request the draft agreement, the full payment breakdown and the conditions for returning a reservation payment. Avoid pressure to transfer immediately, off-platform payment demands and “keys after payment” arrangements without reliable verification.
At handover, record defects with dated photos, agree an inventory, photograph meters and count keys. Keep a signed copy of the agreement and receipts. Confirm which documents you will use for the padrón with the town hall.
Thinking of buying?
Renting first can help you test the area. Before buying, use an independent property lawyer and suitable technical inspection. Have them check title, charges, planning status, community debts and the complete purchase costs before you sign a reservation or deposit agreement.
Go directly to the source
Official requirements, prices and availability can change. Open the relevant source before applying, booking or paying.