Guides · CONCORDIA LEGAL
My tenant is not paying rent: first steps for a landlord in Spain
Calculate arrears, retain communications and review the legal route. Recovering possession and collecting rent are related but different goals.
Separate arrears and possession
List overdue months, other charges and payments received. Check which amounts the lease permits you to claim. Non-payment, an expired lease and occupation without a contract require different assessment.
Keep the documents
Gather lease, amendments, renewals, payment records, property documents and known occupant details. Keep partial-payment or key-return proposals without treating the entire debt as settled.
Prepare prior communications
Form, content and proof of receipt can affect proceedings. Required prior negotiation and the effects of a payment demand must be reviewed. An informal message does not always have the effects of a demand prepared for your case.
Do not force an exit
Changing locks, entering without permission or cutting utilities may create liability. Follow the legal process. If keys are returned voluntarily, document possession, condition and remaining amounts.
If court action is necessary
The lawyer checks requirements, records and whether rent claims can be combined. Service, opposition and occupant circumstances affect timing. Court eviction and enforcement for rent should be distinguished in the quotation. Neither a recovery date nor payment can be guaranteed.
General information. The lawyer reviews your case, documents and deadlines before proposing action.