Can I rent out a property in Spain without an energy certificate?

No. You need a valid, registered certificate before advertising and signing, unless a specific exemption applies (detached under 50 m², use under 4 months/year, protected buildings). Fines range from €300 to €6,000.

How much does a Spanish energy certificate cost?

Prices are unregulated; a typical flat costs €60–150 including the technician's visit. Some regions also charge a registration fee.

How long is the certificate valid?

10 years from issue, except G-rated properties, which must renew after 5. If it expires mid-tenancy, renew it before the next contract or listing.

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Energy performance certificate for renting in Spain: rules, cost and fines

July 20, 20264 min read

To rent out a property in Spain you need a valid energy performance certificate (certificado de eficiencia energética). Mandatory since 2013 (now under RD 390/2021), it is required from the moment you advertise, not just at signing.

When it's mandatory

Whenever you advertise or sign a residential or commercial lease.
The energy label (letter A–G) must appear in listings, including portals.
At signing, give the tenant a copy of the certificate (or attach the label to the contract).

Common exemptions

Officially protected buildings, places of worship, provisional constructions.
Detached properties under 50 m².
Homes used less than 4 months a year (or under 25% of estimated annual consumption).

Cost and validity

A qualified technician (architect, surveyor, engineer) issues it after visiting the property. Market price is around €60–150 for a flat. It must then be registered with your region's registry — unregistered means invalid. Valid for 10 years (5 years if rated G).

Fines

Advertising without the label, renting without a certificate or falsifying data carries fines of €300 to €6,000 (Law 8/2013). Portals increasingly block listings without a rating.

Practical tip

Keep the certificate (PDF + registry number) with the property's documents and set a reminder for its expiry. It's one of the annexes worth listing in the contract, next to the inventory — see essential contract clauses.

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent out a property in Spain without an energy certificate?: No. You need a valid, registered certificate before advertising and signing, unless a specific exemption applies (detached under 50 m², use under 4 months/year, protected buildings). Fines range from €300 to €6,000.
How much does a Spanish energy certificate cost?: Prices are unregulated; a typical flat costs €60–150 including the technician's visit. Some regions also charge a registration fee.
How long is the certificate valid?: 10 years from issue, except G-rated properties, which must renew after 5. If it expires mid-tenancy, renew it before the next contract or listing.

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