Permits required to start building work in Malaga

Starting a building project in Málaga involves more than just choosing an attractive design or quality building materials. To ensure that your project goes ahead smoothly and legally, you must comply with local regulations and obtain the necessary permits. Failure to do so could result in financial penalties or even a halt to construction work, creating avoidable costs and frustration.

We would therefore like to explain the types of permits required in MalagaWhen they are necessary and how you can manage them efficiently with the help of experts like PBM Ingeniería.

The importance of having building permits

Building permits are not only a legal requirement, but also play an essential role in the planning of your project. On the one hand, they protect against possible economic and legal sanctions. On the other hand, ensure that the works comply with safety, urban planning and environmental sustainability standards.

Whether you are building a house from scratch, extending an existing building or simply adapting commercial premises, getting the right permits is the first step to avoiding long-term problems.

Types of permits to start building work in Malaga

Depending on the scope and type of work, you will need to obtain different licences or permits. Below is a breakdown of the most common ones:

1. New building permitThis permit is required if you plan to build on a site where you are planning to build.The land without previous construction. Ensure that your project complies with local planning regulations and avoids conflicts with neighbours or public bodies.
2. Enlargement licenceIf you plan to add a storey, extend rooms or annex spaces to an existing property, you will need this licence. It is especially useful for projects that seek to maximise the use of small spaces.
3. Suitability licenceThis permit applies if you decide to change the use of a property. For example, transforming a dwelling into commercial premises or adapting a space for industrial use.
4. Catering licenceIn Malaga, where there are numerous historic buildings, this permit is essential to preserve the architectural heritage and to comply with the standards set by the cultural authorities.
5. Structural reinforcement licenceIf the project involves reinforcing the structure of an existing building to improve its safety or strength, this licence will be required.
6. Demolition permit: This document is mandatory if you plan to demolish a structure in order to build another in its place.
7. Licence for enclosuresIdeal for enclosing land or delimiting spaces, especially if they may impact adjoining residential or commercial areas.

When is a permit not required?

Although most building work requires permits, there are exceptions. In Málaga, minor reformssuch as painting walls, changing tiles or repairing ceilings, generally no licence required. However, it is important to note that any work that alters the structure, use of the property or affects common elements in a community of owners must be regulated.

It is always advisable to consult an architect or engineer to ensure that your project complies with legal requirements, even in the case of minor works.

Steps to manage permits efficiently

Permit management may seem like a complicated process, but with the right support it can become a simple and quick task. Here are some tips:

1. Find out about local regulations: Before starting any work, check the regulations specific to your locality. This includes knowledge of soil type, height limitations and environmental requirements.
2. Consult an expert: Having the help of a professional such as PBM Engineering is key. Not only to manage the necessary formalities, but also to make sure you meet deadlines and avoid mistakes.
3. Submit all documentation:
   Make sure you have architectural plans, property certificates and any other documents required by municipalities on hand.
4. Follow the process closely:
   Even if the permits are handled by a professional, being informed about the progress of the process will allow you to react quickly to possible setbacks.

The perfect solution for your project 

At PBM EngineeringWe understand how overwhelming the process of obtaining building permits can be. That's why we offer a comprehensive service which includes the licence management and the technical direction of the project. With extensive experience in Malaga, we know the local regulations in detail and work to ensure that your project progresses smoothly.

Whether you are planning to build a house, extend your property or restore an old building, don't hesitate to contact us atWe can help you obtain the necessary permits and ensure that your construction site meets all technical standards.

Find out about our skills in Engineer Malaga - Miguel Pulido Bendavid - Chartered Engineer