Which Rental Costs in Spain Should My Landlord Cover in 2026?

When renting a property in Spain, understanding who pays for what can save you hundreds of euros and a lot of headaches. Many newcomers assume that all costs are the tenant's burden, but Spanish law and common practice divide responsibilities clearly. Here's what your landlord should cover in 2026 — and what you must pay yourself.

Structural Repairs and Maintenance

Under Spain's Urban Leasing Law (LAU), the landlord must pay for all repairs needed to keep the property in a habitable condition. This includes the building's structure, roof, façade, and common areas, as well as major systems like plumbing, electricity, gas, and heating. If the boiler breaks down or a pipe bursts, the landlord foots the bill. However, if the damage is caused by your negligence or misuse, you may be liable. Always report issues in writing and keep a copy.

• Roof leaks, cracked walls, faulty wiring — landlord's cost
• Broken appliances provided in the rental — landlord's cost
• Minor wear and tear like paint touch-ups — landlord's cost
• Damage from your pet or guests — tenant's cost

Community Fees (Gastos de Comunidad)

In Spain, most apartments are part of a community of owners (comunidad de propietarios) that charges monthly or annual fees for building maintenance, cleaning, elevator upkeep, and insurance. Unless your rental contract explicitly states otherwise, these community fees are the landlord's responsibility. Many landlords include them in the rent, but if they try to charge you separately, check your contract. Since 2023, new laws require the landlord to pay these fees by default.

Pro tip: Before signing, ask for a copy of the last year's community fee receipts to ensure no hidden debts exist. You don't want to inherit unpaid bills.

Property Taxes and Insurance

The landlord is responsible for the annual property tax (IBI) and any other taxes linked to ownership, such as garbage collection fees (tasas de basura) that are billed to the property owner. Additionally, the landlord should have a building insurance policy (seguro de hogar) covering structural damage, fire, and liability. You, as tenant, should get your own contents insurance for your belongings.

• IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) — landlord pays
• Community fees — landlord pays (unless contract states otherwise)
• Building insurance — landlord pays
• Contents insurance — tenant pays (highly recommended)

Agency and Legal Fees

As of 2026, a growing number of Spanish regions (including Catalonia and the Balearic Islands) have passed laws requiring the landlord to pay the real estate agency's commission. In other areas, it's still negotiable. If you use an agency to find a rental, ask upfront who pays the fee. Typically, the landlord pays the agency, but some try to pass it to the tenant. Always get this in writing before you pay any deposit or sign anything.

Legal fees for drafting the contract are almost always paid by the landlord. If they ask you to pay for a lawyer or notary, politely refuse — it's not standard practice.

Utility Bills and Minor Repairs

You, the tenant, are responsible for your own consumption — electricity, water, gas, and internet. You must also pay for minor repairs that result from daily use, such as replacing a lightbulb, fixing a leaking tap, or unblocking a sink. These are considered 'small repairs' under the LAU, and the tenant covers them up to a reasonable amount (usually around €50-100 per repair). Anything beyond that should be discussed with the landlord.

• Electricity, water, gas, internet bills — tenant pays
• Replacing fuses, lightbulbs, tap washers — tenant pays
• Unblocking toilets or drains — tenant pays
• Repairing a broken fridge or washing machine (if provided) — landlord pays

Perguntas Frequentes

Can the landlord charge me for painting the apartment before I move in?

No, the landlord must deliver the property in a habitable condition. Painting and any necessary repairs before your move-in are the landlord's cost. You cannot be charged for normal wear and tear.

What if the landlord refuses to fix a broken boiler in winter?

Send a written notification (burofax or email with proof of delivery) requesting the repair. If they don't respond within a reasonable time (usually 7-10 days), you can have it repaired and deduct the cost from the rent, or even terminate the contract. Consult a lawyer first.

Are community fees always the landlord's responsibility?

Yes, unless your rental contract explicitly says otherwise and you agreed to it. Since 2023, Spanish law favors the landlord paying community fees. If you're unsure, check the contract or ask a local gestor.

Do I need to pay the real estate agency fee as a tenant?

It depends on the region. In Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and some other areas, the landlord must pay the agency fee. Elsewhere, it's negotiable. Always clarify before signing any agreement and get it in writing.