Habitability certificate
The document that proves your home is fit to live in. Visit, certificate and paperwork.
No cèdula means no rental, no utilities and no smooth sale.
The habitability certificate, known in Catalonia as the cèdula d'habitabilitat, is the official document confirming that a home meets the minimum conditions to be lived in: floor areas, ceiling heights, lighting, ventilation and services. In Catalonia it is regulated by Decree 141/2012.
You need it to rent and to connect water, electricity or gas, and it is usually requested in a sale. It also sets the maximum number of people who can live in the home.
Types of certificate
First occupation
For new-build homes or homes resulting from a major refurbishment. Obtained when the works are completed.
Second occupation
For existing homes. Requested when the previous one has expired or the home has none.
Expired or lost
If your certificate has expired or you can't find it, we inspect the home and apply for a new one.
How we handle it
Home visit
A technician visits the home, measures the rooms and checks lighting, ventilation, services and general condition.
Checks
We confirm the minimum conditions are met. If something is missing, we explain how to fix it.
Technical certificate
We issue the habitability certificate signed by a qualified professional.
Application and delivery
We submit the application to the administration and send you the cèdula as soon as it is issued.
What we check during the visit
- Usable floor area of the home and of each room
- Clear ceiling height
- Natural lighting and ventilation
- Kitchen and bathroom with their services
- Water, electrical and drainage installations
- General safety and hygiene conditions
Frequently asked questions
How long is the certificate valid?
The second-occupation certificate is valid for 15 years. After that it must be renewed to rent or connect utilities.
What if my home doesn't meet a requirement?
We tell you what needs correcting and how. Often these are simple adjustments; sometimes minor works are needed.
Do I need it to sell?
It is highly advisable: the buyer will need it to connect utilities, and the estate agent, bank or notary usually ask for it.
How long does it take?
The visit and certificate take just a few days. Issuing time depends on the administration, and we keep you informed at every step.
Other services
Projects
New homes, from the first idea to handing over the keys.
Renovations
Full renovations, kitchens and bathrooms, seen in 3D before work starts.
Refurbishment
Façades, roofs and whole buildings. We handle everything, permit included.
Energy certificate
Required to sell or rent. ICAEN registration included.
New in 2026Asbestos certificate
Required in Catalonia from 3 October 2026 to sell or rent.
Shall we talk about your project?
Tell us what you need on WhatsApp, by phone or by email. We reply quickly, and the first visit is free and with no obligation.
- Contact
- Tomas Alguacil
- Phone
- +34 657 26 20 48
- +34 657 26 20 48
- arcocanet@gmail.com
- Where we are
- In the Maresme. We work across the provinces of Barcelona, Girona and Tarragona.