Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions about building survey, ITE/IEE, mortgages and property checks.
Ask your questionCan I be present during the inspection? +
Yes, you can be present throughout the inspection. We even recommend it: it is an opportunity to see with your own eyes the condition of the property and ask the technician questions in real time. If you cannot attend (remote purchase), you will still receive the full photographic report and can arrange a video call to discuss it.
What happens if the inspection reveals serious problems? +
If serious problems emerge (structural, dangerous installations, widespread damp), the report will flag them as 'critical' with photos and cost estimates. You can use this information in three ways: 1) Renegotiate the price downwards. 2) Ask the seller to resolve the problems before completion. 3) Walk away from the purchase without losing your deposit (if the contract was drafted with the appropriate conditions). The report is a negotiation tool, not an obligation to buy.
Is a building survey mandatory before buying a property in Spain? +
No. Currently, inspecting a property before purchase is not a legal requirement in Spain, unlike the energy performance certificate or the building's ITE. But the fact that it is not mandatory does not mean it is not necessary: it is the only way to truly know what you are buying and avoid costly surprises after signing.
In which cases is a pre-purchase survey practically essential? +
In these cases the risk of not inspecting is very high: 1) Second-hand or older property. 2) Undocumented renovations (may hide serious defects). 3) Visible signs of damp, cracks or fissures. 4) New build (better to inspect before receiving the keys to be able to claim from the developer). 5) Remote or overseas purchase. 6) Purchase as an investment for rental.
Does the bank valuation check the technical condition of the property? +
No. It is one of the most common myths. The bank valuation calculates the market value of the property for the bank; it does not analyse its technical condition or detect hidden defects. A favourable valuation does not guarantee that the property is in good condition. They are two completely different services.
What risks does a building survey cover before purchase? +
We detect: 1) Structural defects that can cost tens of thousands of euros. 2) Electrical, plumbing or gas installations in poor or dangerous condition. 3) Damp and leaks that reappear if not treated at the root. 4) Hidden costs that only appear after signing. Also, with the report in hand you can negotiate the price with objective data.
Is it worth inspecting a new build property? +
Yes, especially before receiving the keys. Even if the property is new and under warranty, it is common to find finishing defects, poorly executed installations or damp. Detecting them in time allows you to claim from the developer while the warranty is still active, at no additional cost.
How much can I save with a pre-purchase survey? +
The cost of a survey is a small fraction of the property price. With the report in hand, you can negotiate a price reduction proportional to the estimated cost of the necessary repairs, which in many cases far exceeds the price of the report. It is an investment that pays for itself with a single repair avoided.
Is the ITE mandatory for a single-family home? +
The ITE (or its equivalent IEEV.CV in the Valencian Community) is not generally mandatory for a single-family home in Torrevieja. The general obligation in the Valencian Community mainly affects collective residential buildings (apartment blocks) over 50 years old.
When is it required?
1) If Torrevieja Town Hall requires it due to the poor state of conservation of that specific property.
2) If the owner wants to apply for public grants to improve energy efficiency or carry out renovation works.
Recommendation: although it is not mandatory by law from a certain age, it can be useful if the building is very old or if structural problems are detected. Contact us to assess your specific case.
How much does a building survey cost in Torrevieja? +
The price depends on the size and type of property. For a standard apartment of 80-100 m², the full report with 140+ verified checkpoints has an indicative cost of €240-270. Request a personalised quote with no obligation.
Is the ITE mandatory in Torrevieja? +
Yes. Torrevieja Town Hall requires the Building Technical Inspection (ITE) for buildings over 30 years old. Owners who fail to submit it on time face fines and cannot sell or rent the property.
Can I get a mortgage if the property has planning irregularities? +
Not directly. Banks reject mortgages on properties with unresolved planning irregularities. Our pre-check tells you with certainty whether the property is financeable or not, avoiding applications destined for rejection and rating issues.
How long does the report take? +
The inspection takes 1-2 hours. The full report with photographs, thermal images and renovation cost estimate is delivered within 24-48 hours from the visit.
Which areas do you cover? +
We cover Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Guardamar del Segura and Ciudad Quesada. For other locations on the Costa Blanca, please contact us to check availability.
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