legal

What is a first occupation license (licencia de primera ocupación)?

A licencia de primera ocupación (LPO), also called cédula de habitabilidad, is an official certificate confirming that a building complies with the approved plans and meets habitability standards.

It is issued by the local town hall after a final inspection of the completed construction.

The LPO is essential because: without it, you may not be able to get permanent utility connections (water, electricity), it proves the property is legally habitable, banks may not approve mortgages without it, and selling in the future will be difficult.

Many older properties in Spain lack an LPO, which can be regularized if the building meets current standards.

For new-build purchases from developers, never complete without confirming the LPO has been granted.

Some regions use alternative certificates.

WOW-Estates checks the LPO status of every property to protect our clients.