PLANNING
PERMISSIONS When considering a new build or renovation project
the necessary permissions must be sought. Heavy fines and costs can
accumulate if the correct permissions are not obtained. The process
for obtaining the relevant permissions in Spain is significantly different
from that in UK and advice must be sought. Different levels of planning
permissions will be required depending on the works that are intended
to be carried out. A qualified registered spanish architect will be
required to prepare the plans in order to build a new construction whether
it be for residential or commercial use. In some cases an architectural
technician or aparejador can be used, but in all cases the format of
the planning application has to adhere to both national and local regulations.
The process can take from a few months to more than a year and the timescale
will depend upon the professional that you are using and the required
client input. Often the longest delays are caused by a lack of communication
between the client and the architect.
COST
OF OBTAINING A PLANNING PERMISSION Typically a full planning
permission for a renovation including structural works, such as a new
roof, will cost between 15% and 20% of the official budget submitted
by the architect to the relevant council. The presentation of this official
budget is where professional advice is required in order to keep costs
to a minimum. Remember that the official budget is a administrative
figure and is not the same figure as the actual construction cost.
