Are you looking for a flat to rent and don’t want any surprises? Undoubtedly, price and location are the main aspects, but there are many more that you should also take into account. Details such as the conditions of the contract, the additional costs or even the current regulations can influence your day-to-day life. We tell you everything you should check before signing so that you can make the best decision.
Things to consider before renting a home
Before deciding on a rental flat, it is advisable to evaluate a number of factors. Let’s take a look at them:
- Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on rent without compromising your finances. Experts suggest that rent should not exceed 30-35% of your monthly income. Also take into account additional expenses such as utilities, community fees and taxes.
- Location: Choose an area that suits your daily needs, considering proximity to work, public transport, educational facilities and basic services. Research the safety and atmosphere of the neighbourhood.
- Condition of the property: Inspect the property in detail. Check the functioning of electrical installations, plumbing, heating and electrical appliances. If the property is furnished, make sure that the furniture is in good condition.
- Conditions of the contract: Read all the clauses carefully. Pay attention to the length of the contract, renewal policies, conditions for terminating the contract, possible penalties and any restrictions, such as a ban on pets, for example.
Rent: what does the landlord pay and what does the tenant pay?
Financial responsibilities should be clear to both parties to avoid misunderstandings. You should be aware of what the regulations dictate with regard to the frequent expenses of a rented flat.
Owner’s costs:
- Property tax (PT) : This is payable by the owner, unless otherwise agreed in the contract.
- Community charges: The landlord bears these costs, unless it is agreed that the tenant will cover them.
- Insurance: The owner is usually responsible for the insurance relating to the structure of the dwelling.
Tenant’s costs:
- Utilities: The tenant is responsible for the costs of water, electricity, gas and internet.
- Minor maintenance: Small repairs arising from everyday use, such as changing a light bulb or fixing a dripping tap.
Rent: who pays for repairs?
The Law on Urban Leases (LAU) includes different specific aspects related to renting.
In relation to the payment of repairs, it is the landlord’s responsibility to carry out all repairs that are necessary to maintain the property in habitable conditions, except if the deterioration is attributable to the tenant.
On the other hand, the tenant is responsible for minor repairs arising from wear and tear due to ordinary use of the property.
For example, if the boiler stops working due to age, the landlord must repair or replace it. However, if a shutter breaks due to misuse, the tenant is responsible for repairing it.
Rent protection
In 2025, the updated of Ley por el Derecho a la Vivienda and related regulations have implemented measures to protect both tenants and landlords:
- Limiting rent increases: In areas declared as stressed, limits are set on rent increases to avoid disproportionate increases.
- Duration of contracts: The minimum duration of contracts is five years if the lessor is a natural person and seven years if the lessor is a legal entity, with the possibility of automatic extensions of up to three additional years.
- Reference index: A new index has been created by the National Statistics Institute (NSI) for the annual update of lease contracts, replacing the CPI.
How much deposit is required by law when renting a flat?
By law, in Spain, the tenant is required to pay a deposit equivalent to one month’s rent for regular housing contracts. In temporary or seasonal rentals, the landlord may request a different amount as a guarantee.
According to the Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos, it is compulsory for the tenant to provide a deposit equivalent to one month’s rent in the case of rental of dwellings and two months’ rent in the case of rental for use other than a dwelling. In addition, any type of additional guarantee can be agreed.
Tips before renting a home
To avoid inconveniences and ensure that your rental experience is a satisfactory one, we recommend that you follow these 10 tips:
- Read the rental contract carefully: Make sure you understand all the clauses before you sign.
- Check the condition of the property: Carry out a detailed inspection and document any damage.
- Confirm any additional costs: Ask which costs are included in the rent and which you will be responsible for.
- Make sure the landlord’s payments are up to date: Check that the flat has no associated debts.
- Ask about the termination policy: Know the conditions in case you need to end the contract early.
- Keep copies of all documentation: Have the contract, payment receipts and any communication with the landlord at hand.
- Check the legality of the contract: Make sure that everything in writing complies with the Law on Urban Leases.
- Ask for a review of the electrical and gas installation: This can avoid safety problems in the future.
- Clarify the renewal conditions: Find out how the renewal of the contract will be handled and check that it will be carried out in accordance with the law.
- Ask about possible renovations: If you want to paint, change furniture or make modifications, make sure that the landlord allows this and that this is reflected in the contract.
Can a tenant terminate a lease early?
Yes, but it is important to check the termination clause of the contract. In most cases, the tenant must give one month’s notice and, if the contract stipulates, pay compensation proportional to the time remaining.
Can a landlord terminate the lease early?
The landlord can only terminate the rental contract early in specific situations, such as non-payment of rent or the need to use the flat for own use. In these cases, at least two months’ notice must be given.