Tenant’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Renting a home is a major decision that carries both legal and financial commitments for the tenant. It’s not just about choosing a property; it’s about defining a space where you’ll live, organize your daily life, and create your own lifestyle for months or even years. That’s why it’s essential to be well-informed before signing. Understanding your rights, the obligations you take on, and the costs involved in each type of lease will help you avoid unpleasant surprises, negotiate with confidence, and enjoy a smooth rental experience from the very start.

This guide brings together all the key information a tenant in the Costa del Sol needs to know, from preparation and required documentation to the differences between a seasonal rental and a long-term lease, handling payments and deposits, and practical tips for harmonious living. Whether you’re looking for a home to work remotely by the sea, planning an extended holiday, or moving permanently, you’ll find everything here to help you make informed decisions and enjoy the process without setbacks.

• Table of contents
• 1. Documentation and Initial Requirements
• 2. Understanding the Rental Agreement
• 3. Payments and Security Deposit
• 4. Expenses Payable by the Tenant
• 5. Tenant Rights and Obligations
• 6. Coexistence, Pets, and Sustainability
• 7. The Costa del Sol: An Ideal Place to Rent

Peace of mind begins with preparation. Having the right paperwork ready makes the process far smoother:

• Identification: Valid ID, NIE, or passport.
• Proof of income: Employment contract, recent payslips, or other evidence of financial stability.
• Guarantees or references: Some landlords may request a bank or personal guarantor, and references from previous landlords always inspire confidence.

The lease is the cornerstone of the relationship between landlord and tenant and must always be put in writing. In Spain, the Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos (LAU), Spain’s Urban Leases Act regulates the different types of contracts based on the length and purpose of the stay.

• Seasonal Rental
  Designed for temporary stays, work assignments, study programs, or extended holidays, rather than as a primary residence. The term is freely agreed, usually under one year, and is not subject to the mandatory renewals set out in the LAU. The contract should clearly state the reason for the stay, exact start and end dates, and the agreed security deposit.
• Long-Term Rental
  Intended as a permanent residence. While the initial term is negotiable, if it’s less than five years (or seven when the landlord is a company), the law provides for automatic annual renewals up to those minimums. Tenants may end the lease after the first six months by giving at least 30 days’ notice. The minimum legal security deposit is one month’s rent, refundable at the end of the contract provided there are no damages or outstanding debts.

Rent is agreed between the parties and is typically paid monthly. The landlord must issue a receipt or proof of payment, and bank transfers are highly recommended for clarity. In addition to rent, you’ll pay the legal security deposit, equal to one month’s rent and lodged with the relevant regional authority. It is returned in full at the end of the lease, provided there are no damages or unpaid charges.

A landlord may request an additional guarantee or extra deposit, which must be clearly itemized in the contract.

For rentals managed by Homewatch, 50 % of the total amount, including deposit and cleaning fee, is due at the time of booking, with the remaining 50 % payable four weeks before arrival. If the second payment is not received within 48 hours of a reminder, the reservation is cancelled without refund of the initial payment. The security deposit, held against possible damages or unpaid bills, is returned within seven days after checkout once the property has been inspected.

Under Spanish law, tenants are responsible for all utilities with individual meters, such as electricity, water, gas, internet, and pay-TV. They may also cover certain general expenses, community fees, waste collection, or similar, if this has been agreed in writing. Minor repairs due to normal wear and tear are generally the tenant’s responsibility, while structural or major maintenance falls to the landlord.

In a seasonal rental, conditions may vary: services like cleaning, linens, or some utilities are often included in the total price, but any extra costs or excluded consumptions must be specified in the contract to avoid misunderstandings.

In both long-term and seasonal rentals, tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property and to necessary repairs that keep it habitable. They are also entitled to the full return of their deposit provided there are no damages or unpaid amounts. For primary-residence contracts, the LAU allows tenants to terminate the lease after six months with at least 30 days’ notice.

Seasonal rentals follow similar principles, but the stay ends on the date stated in the agreement, without automatic renewal. The deposit, at least one month’s rent, is returned at the end of the stay if the property is left in good condition.

In every case, tenants must pay rent and deposit on time, keep the property in good order, handle minor repairs caused by normal use, respect community rules, and not sublet without the landlord’s explicit consent.

Good neighbourly relations are essential for a pleasant stay. Respect building rules, avoid unnecessary noise, and help maintain shared areas. Equally important are sustainable habits: manage energy use responsibly, recycle, and report any issues promptly to prevent costly repairs.

Pets are not prohibited by law, but landlords or homeowners’ associations may set specific conditions, so it’s vital to include any agreement in the contract. In properties managed by Homewatch, prior authorization is required, along with details of the pet’s breed and weight. Approved pets must not climb on furniture or enter the pool, and tenants are responsible for cleaning up after them, especially in gardens. Failure to comply can lead to extra cleaning charges or even loss of the entire deposit.

With clear communication and respectful behavior, both tenants and landlords can enjoy a well-maintained environment and a conflict-free stay.

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, fine sandy beaches, world-class cuisine, and a vibrant cultural scene, the Costa del Sol ranks among Europe’s most attractive destinations for both short-term and long-term stays.

Families and remote professionals alike find an exceptional combination of climate, services, and quality of life here. To explore each area in detail, consult our guides to the main regions of the Costa del Sol, where you’ll find recommendations for dining, leisure, and local services.

If you’re already planning your next stay, take a look at the range of rental properties available through Homewatch. From cosy seafront apartments to spacious villas with private gardens and pools, we offer carefully managed options to help you find the perfect home and enjoy a comfortable, worry-free experience from day one.