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Property Maintenance in Spain |
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE IN SPAIN written by Ron Withers
 As a property owner, at some stage you will probably require the services of a builder. The trick is to find one who is reliable, professional and competent in carrying out the work on time and on budget. To this end, a builder who comes recommended or who can provide references is usually the safest bet.
If you are proposing to carry out fairly comprehensive building works it pays to obtain more than one estimate. However, you must insure that all parties estimating have the same written schedule of works so that you can compare like for like.
In Spain you normally require a building license from your local Town hall which covers most minor building works. A fee is payable for this based on a percentage of the declared cost of the proposed work. For larger jobs, extensions and new buildings you will need to apply for planning permission, as this requires scaled drawings and possibly structural calculations. You therefore need to instruct a good registered local architect to make all the necessary applications to the local authority on your behalf.
Most modern materials are available here and there is no reason to accept sub standard or so called ‘rustic’ finishes if you wish otherwise. Building materials are generally cheaper in Spain than in northern Europe as indeed are labour costs, but be mindful of the old sayings: “you only get what you pay for” and “buy cheap, buy twice” as they apply equally here as in other parts of the world.
Another tip regarding local builders is to use one who has been here for some years and is therefore established and knowledgeable about reliable architects, suppliers, tradesmen and regulations. Unfortunately, Spain attracts too many people from various countries purporting to be qualified builders, electricians, plumbers, etc when they are no such thing. They will invariably cost jobs much lower than qualified professionals, but usually cost the client more in the long run, avoid people like this and you will avoid disappointment.
Spain has its ‘manana’ reputation in its general approach to life, but I still believe that when a firm appointment is made it should be kept! There is a perfectly good telephone network here so a quick call to a client to explain a delay is not too difficult.
If your property needs electrical works, upgrades or even its first supply, you do need to talk with a qualified and certified electrician able to apply on your behalf for all relevant paperwork from your service provider.
For some property owners language can also be a barrier, so to use a builder who can communicate in Spanish with various authorities, tradesmen and suppliers on the client’s behalf is an advantage.
FOR FURTHER ADVICE, PROJECT MANAGEMENT & ESTIMATES FOR ALL TYPES OF BUILDING WORKS FEEL FREE TO CONTACT:
RON or CHRIS WITHERS: (0034) 687 422 539 or 670 296 830.
EMAIL:
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