If your property is part of a building or community of owners (comunidad de propietarios), you may need formal approval from your neighbours before starting a renovation. This is especially true for changes to façades, terraces, windows, or any works that affect shared elements of the property.
Failing to get approval can result in complaints, fines, or even being forced to undo completed works. The good news? With the right preparation and clear communication, the process can be smooth.
When Do You Need Community Approval?
You typically need written consent when your works:
- Affect façades, terraces, balconies, or roofs.
- Involve structural changes (walls, beams, foundations).
- Modify common elements (staircases, patios, hallways).
- Change the external appearance (colour, windows, shutters, doors).
- Add installations (air conditioning units, solar panels, awnings).
For interior works that do not affect structure or common elements, approval is usually not needed — but always check your statutes (estatutos de la comunidad).
How to Request Community Approval
- Review the Statutes: Each community may have slightly different rules.
- Draft a Written Request: Outline the works, timeline, and confirm that costs will be covered by you.
- Circulate the Letter: Send to the community president/administrator, and provide copies to each neighbour if required.
- Get it on the Agenda: Your request must be formally included in the next community meeting (Junta de Propietarios).
- Vote & Approval: Depending on the type of work, different voting thresholds apply (majority vs. unanimity).
- Keep Written Evidence: Always obtain written minutes or signed consent before beginning works.
To make the process easier, we’ve prepared ready-to-use letter templates you can adapt for your renovation project. These letters are written in both English and Spanish, making them especially helpful for international homeowners.
💡 Pro Tips from ROBINSON
- Be proactive: The more transparent you are, the easier the approval.
- Provide visuals: Including plans, renders, or before/after sketches helps neighbours understand your project.
- Anticipate objections: Noise, dust, or aesthetics — address them upfront in your letter.
- Work with experts: Our team prepares the technical documentation needed for community approvals, ensuring compliance.
Community approval is a vital step in Mallorca renovations. With the right documentation and neighbour communication, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
If you need assistance with approvals, licences, or technical reports:
👉 Contact ROBINSON Architecture Services
