New Protections for Landlords and Agreements with Junts
At the upcoming Council of Ministers meeting on 9 December, the Spanish government is set to approve a decree aimed at supporting property owners confronted with non-payment issues, particularly when renting to young people or vulnerable groups. This initiative, alongside the acceleration of eviction procedures for okupas (illegal occupants), stems from commitments made in agreements with the Catalan separatist party Junts.
Real estate experts note that this measure arrives seven years later than needed. Importantly, landlords have not requested direct financial aid; rather, their primary concern has been the ability to rent their properties without the fear of losing them due to non-payment. In this context, tools such as rent non-payment insurance and professional property rental management services in Spain are gaining traction among landlords as effective ways to mitigate the risks associated with unpaid rent.
Accelerating Eviction Procedures for Okupas
Earlier this year, in March, the Spanish Parliament approved legislation introduced by Junts to shorten eviction timelines for okupas to a maximum of 48 hours. The bill proposes amendments to both civil and criminal law to prevent delays caused by claims of vulnerability from illegal occupants. Furthermore, it establishes an immediate court process for unlawful property occupation, akin to procedures used for minor offenses, ensuring swift resolution.
Enhanced Powers for Municipalities
The proposed decree will also empower mayors with greater authority to invest in long-term projects beyond routine expenditures, including housing construction and water management initiatives. Additionally, it extends the deadline for advancing the digitalization of invoicing processes within companies, aiming to streamline administrative procedures and enhance transparency.