Building a home in Mallorca is an exciting investment, but even well-planned projects can encounter unexpected costs. Beyond construction itself, there are legal, logistical, and environmental expenses that many owners overlook. Understanding these from the start helps you set a realistic budget and avoid surprises later.
At Robinson Architecture, Design & Construction, transparency is central to our process. We guide clients through every stage of planning and budgeting to ensure their investment delivers both quality and value.
1. Land Preparation and Topography
Not all plots are ready to build on. Excavation, retaining walls, and soil stabilization can add significant costs, especially on sloped or rocky terrain. In coastal areas, drainage and access improvements may also be required before foundation work can begin.
Our Architecture Services include early site assessments to identify these conditions in advance, allowing for accurate budgeting before construction starts.
2. Permits and Legal Fees
Building permits, technical certificates, and municipal taxes represent essential but often underestimated costs. Depending on the municipality, fees can reach 2–4% of total construction value. Environmental impact studies or heritage approvals may add further expense if the plot falls within a protected zone.
By coordinating with local authorities from the beginning, we simplify the process and prevent costly delays in obtaining licenses.
3. Utility Connections and Infrastructure
Even in developed areas, connecting electricity, water, sewage, and telecom services can involve additional work. Rural plots may require private solutions such as water tanks or septic systems. These installations, while essential, can represent a meaningful share of the budget.
Our Construction & Project Management team ensures all infrastructure planning is integrated into the project timeline and cost forecast.
4. Professional Fees and Technical Consultants
Beyond architecture and construction, other specialists may be required — including structural engineers, surveyors, energy consultants, and geotechnical experts. Their input ensures compliance and safety but also adds to upfront costs. Our integrated model consolidates these services to streamline coordination and reduce duplication.
5. Design Changes During Construction
Modifications to materials, layouts, or finishes after work has begun are one of the most common sources of additional expense. High-end clients often refine details as the project evolves, but each adjustment affects time, materials, and labor.
Our Design & Turnkey Solutions mitigate this by finalizing selections early and maintaining constant communication throughout construction.
6. Landscaping and Exterior Works
Garden design, pools, lighting, and boundary walls often fall outside the primary construction contract. These details elevate the final result but can substantially extend the budget if not planned in advance. We collaborate with LoNiu Home Outdoor Living to integrate exterior architecture and design from the outset, ensuring aesthetic and financial consistency.
7. Furnishings and Interior Styling
Once the structure is complete, high-quality interiors — kitchens, wardrobes, lighting, and furniture — add considerable value. However, these elements are rarely included in standard construction budgets. Our partnership with LoNiu Home allows clients to achieve a cohesive interior finish, with options tailored to both style and cost expectations.
8. Maintenance and Operation Costs
After handover, running costs such as pool maintenance, gardening, and cleaning must be considered. Choosing efficient systems, durable materials, and sustainable energy solutions reduces long-term expenses and increases property value.
9. The Value of Transparent Management
At Robinson, we believe that awareness is the key to control. Through detailed budgets, milestone reviews, and cost tracking, our team ensures every decision is clear and every euro accounted for. No hidden extras — only deliberate choices.
Learn more about how we manage budgets and timelines in Building in Mallorca or contact us for tailored cost guidance before you start building.
