Information for Buyers

Buying a property in La Palma: 14. Certificate of habitation (cédula de habitabilidad) or first occupancy licence

What exactly is a Certificate of Habitation or First Occupancy Licence?

Volker Horch: In order to connect a property to public utilities (water, electricity and telephone), what is known as a Certificate of Habitation (Cédula de Habitabilidad) or a First Occupancy Licence (Licencia de Primera Ocupación) is required. Most homes that were built with a building permit already have this documentation in place.

Where can the Certificate of Habitation or First Occupancy Licence be obtained?

Volker Horch: You can apply for it at the town hall of the relevant municipality. For properties that do not have a building permit, the Certificate of Habitation or First Occupancy Licence can be requested by submitting a report prepared by an architect to the town hall. In most cases, the certificate or licence is issued without any complications.

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