Renting a home may seem like a simple process, but it involves a legal commitment that can lead to complications if not properly reviewed. Before signing a lease, it is essential to pay attention to the details to protect your rights as a tenant or landlord.
Duration and conditions of the contract
The first aspect to check is the duration of the contract. In Spain, housing leases usually have a minimum duration of five years for contracts with individuals and seven years if the landlord is a legal entity, according to the Urban Leasing Law (LAU). It is also important to review the conditions for automatic renewal or early termination of the contract.
Bail and additional guarantees
The law states that the landlord can ask for a deposit equivalent to one month's rent. However, in some cases, additional guarantees may be requested, such as bank guarantees or extra deposits. Make sure that these terms are clearly defined in the contract and that they are reasonable.
Obligations and shared expenses
Another key point is to define who will be responsible for additional expenses, such as repairs, basic utilities (water, electricity, gas) and community fees. Although the law states that structural repairs are usually the responsibility of the owner, it is important to put everything in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
Before signing, consult with a civil law attorney to ensure that the contract is fair and complies with current regulations. This small step can save you big problems down the road.