Common problem
I want to convert commercial premises into a dwelling
The short answer
Converting commercial premises into a dwelling is not just a refurbishment: it is a change of use that must be allowed by the planning rules and the municipal ordinance, and it requires the space to meet specific habitability conditions, such as natural light and ventilation or minimum ceiling heights. That is why the first step is not the works, but the feasibility study.
Possible causes
- 01Disused premises whose value would be higher as a dwelling.
- 02Purchases of ground-floor commercial units already intended for transformation.
- 03The need to make use of an owned space for residential use.
- 04Investment in consolidated areas where dwellings are in higher demand.
What needs checking
- Planning rules and municipal ordinance: whether the change of use is admissible on that plot or building.
- Physical conditions of the premises: openings to open space or courtyard, ventilation, clear height and layout.
- Statutes of the owners' community, if the premises are part of a horizontally divided building.
- Applicable procedure: prior notification, responsible declaration or permit, depending on the municipality and the scope of the works.
Which professionals are involved
The feasibility study and the technical documentation correspond to the technician. The urban planning admissibility and the resolution of the procedure correspond to the town hall; when the premises are in a building under the horizontal property regime, the community statutes should also be reviewed.
The MideFinca service that may fit
It depends on the specific case: we review your documentation first and then confirm it.
- Change of use from commercial premises to dwelling
- Certificate of habitability and dwelling measurement
- Major works licence (licencia de obra mayor)