Spain is changing the rules and, from this year onwards, property owners will not be able to rent out their homes to tourists without the permission of the homeowners’ association.

The situation for those who want to become independent in Spain is becoming increasingly complicated, especially for young people. Many wish to have their own home and start a family, but the current economy makes this desire almost unattainable. More and more people are reaching thirty still living at home with their parents, not for lack of motivation, but because buying or renting a home involves unaffordable expenses.

The rental sector has been under pressure for some time: prices continue to rise, the supply of available apartments is shrinking, and sharing an apartment is the only real option for many. Additionally, tenants face uncertainty over possible rent increases or fear of not having their contracts renewed.

In response to this problem, on April 3, 2025, an important reform of the Horizontal Property Law (Organic Law 1/2025) came into force, completely transforming the management of tourist rentals within homeowners’ associations. From now on, no owner may use their apartment for vacation accommodation without the express authorization of their neighbors, who must approve the permit by a reinforced majority of three-fifths.

This new legal framework, promoted by the Minister of Housing and Urban Agenda Isabel Rodríguez together with city councils and autonomous communities, gives more control to residents over tourist apartments. Its aim is to combat common problems of tourism such as excess visitors, noise, and the shortage of homes available for those seeking permanent residence. Additionally, the law allows charging up to 20% extra to tourist apartments to cover costs arising from intensive use of common areas.

On the other hand, the government is introducing the Digital One-Stop Rentals Platform, a national registry that has been active since January 2, 2025, and will be fully operational in July. This platform will centralize and monitor tourist and short-term rentals, combating fraud and helping to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

The objective of the reform is to free up more homes for long-term rental and prioritize their use as primary residences, thus making it easier for the local population to access housing in cities such as Barcelona and other large Spanish urban areas.