Property Due Diligence in Spain
Property due diligence checks whether the legal and documentary position of the property matches what the buyer has been offered. A nota simple is essential for registered ownership and charges, but a complete review can also require cadastral, community, planning and contract documentation depending on the property.
Who it is for
- Buyers before signing arras or a private sale contract.
- Investors comparing potential acquisitions.
- Non-residents seeking independent documentary review.
Main requirements
- Obtain current Land Registry and cadastral information.
- Request seller documents relevant to the property type.
- Cross-check key information and identify discrepancies.
Documents
- Nota simple and registry certification where appropriate.
- Descriptive and graphic cadastral information.
- Community-debt certificate and information on approved/planned special assessments where available.
- Licences, plans, works documentation or other property-specific records.
How it works
- Check registered ownership and rights/charges.
- Compare Registry, Cadastre and available physical/property documentation.
- Review community and contractual risks.
- Prepare a list of issues and conditions to resolve before completion.
Frequently asked questions
Is a nota simple enough for full due diligence?
No. It is central to registered title and charges, but it does not replace cadastral, community, contractual and, where relevant, planning review.
Why check community debts?
Under the Horizontal Property Act, the acquired property may be legally affected by certain community debts of the previous owner; a debt-status certificate is normally supplied on transfer unless the buyer expressly waives it.
Official sources
- Spanish Land Registrars — nota simple
- Spanish Cadastre e-office
- BOE — Horizontal Property Act, article 9
Reviewed: 23/08/2026
Property purchase legal services
Property Purchase in Spain: Legal Checks and Completion
Legal support through a Spanish property purchase: NIE, reservation review, due diligence, arras, purchase costs, notary signing and registration.
ReadReservation and Arras Contracts When Buying Property in Spain
Legal review of reservation and arras contracts in Spain: deposits, deadlines, financing conditions, withdrawal, breach and completion obligations.
ReadSelling property in Spain
Seller document preparation, review of registered charges and contracts, and transaction coordination through signing.
ReadBuying property in Spain as a non-resident
Legal due diligence and transaction coordination for foreign buyers, including purchases through a power of attorney.
ReadRelated articles
Practical articles and legal guidance related to this service.
compraventa-inmobiliaria
Nota Simple in Spain: what to check before buying a property
A practical guide to checking a Spanish Nota Simple before buying property: ownership, description, mortgages, embargoes, easements and other registered restrictions.
Read article