Andalusia Confirms Tourist Rental Licence Validity After Property Sale

According to the Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA), the Junta de Andalucía has confirmed that Andalusia tourist rental licences remain valid when a property changes ownership. This means that new buyers can continue renting their property without seeking new community approval — an important clarification for property owners and investors across Southern Spain.

There was previously confusion over whether a change of ownership triggered the need for new community consent to continue operating as tourist accommodation. The latest regional guidance confirms that the licence is tied to the property’s registration rather than the individual owner, so its validity continues after a sale.

• Smoother sales: Properties retain their tourist-rental status on completion, supporting price, demand, and rental continuity.
• Less red tape: No additional community vote or approval is required solely because the owner has changed.
• Operational continuity: Bookings and rental activity can carry on (subject to standard registration updates) without interruption.
• Stronger buyer confidence: Investors can purchase licensed properties knowing the licence remains effective after transfer.

• Administrative updates still apply: The new owner must update the property’s details with the relevant registry and comply with ongoing obligations (for example guest registration, safety and quality standards).
• New licences vs existing licences: This clarification concerns already registered tourist properties that change ownership. Properties seeking a new licence must follow the current application rules in force.
• Community rules still matter: House rules and community statutes (noise, use of common areas, and similar) remain enforceable and must be respected by owners and guests.

Legal certainty is a cornerstone of a healthy investment market. By confirming that licences persist after a sale without requiring fresh community approval, Andalusia reduces transactional risk, protects rental income continuity, and helps licensed properties maintain their market value. For international buyers, this clarity makes it easier to underwrite returns and plan for the long term.

The confirmation regarding the Andalusia tourist rental licence also highlights the region’s continued commitment to strengthening its property market and protecting investor confidence. Over recent years, Andalusia has become one of Spain’s most dynamic areas for both holiday rentals and second-home ownership. With this clarification, the Junta de Andalucía provides much-needed legal certainty for both national and international buyers who rely on short-term rental income. It also ensures smoother property transactions, as sellers can market their homes with an active tourist licence already in place. For those purchasing luxury beachfront apartments or villas on the Costa del Sol, maintaining an Andalusia tourist rental licence guarantees uninterrupted operations and sustained rental profitability from day one.

• Verify the property’s current registration status in the Andalusian tourism register before signing.
• Include licence references and documentation in your due diligence and completion pack.
• Plan post-completion administration (ownership change notifications, guest-registration credentials, insurance updates, and similar).
• Review community statutes and house rules to align rental operations with building policies.

At Livingstone Estates, we welcome this clarification. It supports fair, transparent transactions and gives owners and investors across the Costa del Sol greater confidence. If you are buying, selling, or holding a tourist-licensed property, our team can guide you through the practical steps, due diligence, valuation, documentation updates, and rental management to keep your investment compliant and performing.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Regulations can evolve and their application depends on individual circumstances. We recommend seeking advice from a qualified Spanish real estate lawyer before making decisions.

For tailored assistance, contact Livingstone Estates:

Phone: +34 952 806 417
Email: info@livingstone-estates.com
Website: www.livingstone-estates.com

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