Home and ownership

Before buying: what the owners’ association records reveal

An apartment belongs to a building with shared expenses, decisions and plans. Understand the needs of the whole property as well as the condition of the flat.

DIAMAR editorial · 21 October 2026 · 2 min read

AI illustration: Neighbours talking in a shared entrance hall.
AI illustration: Neighbours talking in a shared entrance hall.
01

Request information through the seller

Ask about current contributions, outstanding debts and decisions concerning works. Spain’s Horizontal Property Act governs the association and owners’ obligations. Agree the available documents and their disclosure with the seller or authorised manager; neighbours’ personal details are unnecessary for assessing the apartment.

02

Compare decisions with the building

If the façade, lift or roof has been discussed, establish what is approved, completed and paid for. Distinguish a proposal from an adopted decision and finished work. Fresh paint does not explain the cause of earlier damage; seek a technical assessment when needed.

03

Turn information into transaction questions

List expected payments, dates and unresolved points. Responsibility for particular charges needs legal review against documents, timing and transaction terms. Do not rely solely on “everything is paid”. A useful file describes the position on a stated date and makes clear what still requires confirmation.

A practical DIAMAR editorial guide. Confirm the conditions that apply to your circumstances.

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