One of the biggest mistakes property owners in Mallorca make is believing that they can do interior renovation without a building permit in Mallorca.
Why is there this confusion?
There are at least two reasons why it is believed that interior renovation can be done without a building permit in Mallorca.
The first is because if the work is minor, it can be done only by submitting a prior communication. This is similar to a building permit but without having to wait for the administration to reply. In other words, the owner informs the town hall that he is going to start an interior reform in his house in Mallorca and pays the fee corresponding to the budget presented. What happens is that the town hall can check the works and if a building permit was necessary (project and municipal authorisation before starting), they can fine the owner or, if necessary, order the demolition.
Second reason why interior refurbishments are carried out without a municipal building permit in Mallorca.
The second reason is when the house is out of order (i.e. illegal). Someone, usually a seller, builder or intermediary, advises the owner to do it without applying for a licence (or assures him that it is not necessary).
Reforms always require either a prior communication (subject to subsequent review), or a building license with an architect’s project and prior approval by the town hall.
Advice regarding interior renovations in Mallorca.
Don’t take unnecessary risks.
If you are already a homeowner, consider that you are taking risks by renovating without a building permit. But also, your house is worth more if you have all the permits as stated in the law.
If you are not an owner. Be wary of anyone who tells you that you can reform without a building permit or communication. They may be trying to prevent you from discovering that you are buying a property with parts that are out of order (illegal) and cannot be reformed.