Planning problems for homeowners on Lanzarote

Home-owners on Lanzarote can sometimes find themselves penalised for the smallest of planning infractions. Erardo Ferrer, of Lanzarote Lawyers, explains how to prevent problems, and how to deal with potential complaints.

Urban planning infractions on Lanzarote can be very diverse, ranging from opening a space to install an air conditioner without permission or enlarging a window, to more drastic actions such as enclosing a terrace, remodelling a home to extend it, installing semi-open or closed pergolas, etc.

Fines for these types of infractions can range from a minimum of €3,000 to €80,000 depending on the type of infraction, and this is in addition to the penalty of demolishing the illegal construction.

The process begins with a denuncia (complaint) regarding the alleged commission of an urban planning infraction. This usually originates from a neighbour or the community of owners.

Our recommendation is to never carry out any work without the necessary building permit and the permission or consent of your owners’ community (when this applies). Additionally, you should not begin any extension or modification of your home without first consulting your lawyer or architect about what is and is not permitted.

However, if for whatever reason a property owner lacks the necessary license or permit and is reported, we would strongly advise you not to sit and wait.

That is the worst option, but unfortunately the one most affected people choose. They go into shock and simply wait for the next notification, hoping it will magically get lost in the town hall offices and the problem will vanish.

From the moment you learn of the initiation of proceedings or the report, you must act in advance, before the proposed penalty arrives. This is one of the keys to improving the property owner’s legal situation. There are certain aspects that can be prepared to lessen the effects of these penalties and even, in some cases, avoid them or reduce them to a minimum. And this is where we lawyers come in. With our experience and knowledge, along with the collaboration of our architects, we can be of great help to our clients. We don’t perform miracles, but sometimes we come close.