Change of Use from Premises to Dwelling: What You Need to Know
The booming real estate market in Marbella has led many owners and investors to consider converting commercial premises into residential properties. However, this process is more complex than it seems and requires a specialized team to ensure that everything is done legally and efficiently. At Valido Home, we take care of managing the entire procedure so that you can transform your premises into a home with complete peace of mind.
1. Legal and Urbanistic Requirements
Before starting any change of use, it is essential to analyze the town planning regulations in force in Marbella. Not all premises can be converted into dwellings, as they must comply with the requirements established in the General Urban Development Plan (PGOU) and the Technical Building Code (CTE). Among the key aspects to consider are:
- Location of the premises within the urban planning.
- Minimum clear height: The clear height inside the premises must be at least 2.70 meters.
- Minimum usable area: To ensure habitability, dwellings must comply with a minimum usable area established by regulations.
- Ventilation and natural lighting conditions: All habitable rooms must have adequate natural lighting and ventilation.
- Accessibility and compliance with safety regulations.
In addition, the Marbella Town Hall is preparing a regulation that could limit the change of use of commercial premises to tourist dwellings, so it is essential to consult with experts before starting the process.
2. Procedure and Necessary Licenses
The change of use requires obtaining different permits and licenses from the Marbella Town Hall, including:
- Urban feasibility report: Determines whether the premises are suitable for the change of use.
- Technical project approved by an architect: Must justify compliance with current regulations.
- Building permit: If structural or distribution modifications are required.
- Execution of works: Adequacy of the premises to the requirements of habitability and security.
- License of first occupation: To inhabit the house legally once the work is finished.
- Registry update: Modification in the Land Registry and Cadastre.
3. Costs and Deadlines
The budget to convert a premises into a dwelling varies according to the characteristics of the property and the necessary works. Factors such as the adaptation of installations, improvements in accessibility or structural reinforcements may influence the final cost. In addition, the process can take between 6 and 12 months, depending on the agility in obtaining licenses and the execution of the works.
4. The Importance of a Specialized Team
Given the complexity of the process, having a specialized team is essential to avoid legal problems and delays. At Valido Home, we take care of everything, through our partner in architecture and design Me2 Design & Build
- Feasibility study and legal advice.
- Elaboration of the technical project and processing of licenses.
- Execution and supervision of the works.
- Final management for the habitability.
Miguel S. Moreira
Miguel is a trained architect and building engineer with a ample experience in the real estate sector. He is the co-founder of Valido Home and loves to inform about the risks involved in purchasing property in Spain.
