Additional costs can come as a surprise to both tenants and property owners. Our overview clearly explains the common types of expenses in Mallorca, who is responsible for what, and how to handle billing correctly with the landlord or property manager. This way, you can always keep your expenses under control.
Additional Costs in Mallorca: What Tenants and Owners Really Have to Pay
When thinking about renting or buying a property in Mallorca, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the rental or purchase price. However, additional costs—often called community fees or extra expenses—can come as an unexpected surprise for both tenants and owners if they are not well informed.
Imagine that you just signed the lease for a lovely apartment in Palma, only to receive an unexpected bill for community fees or electricity. Unfortunately, this is a common situation that can be avoided with a good understanding of the real costs and how they are shared.
Common types of additional costs in Mallorca
In Mallorca, additional costs mainly fall into community fees, utilities, and municipal taxes. Below is a table explaining the most frequent costs and their characteristics:
| Type of cost | Description | Paid by | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community fees | Maintenance of common areas, pool, elevator, gardening | Usually tenant or owner (depending on contract) | Monthly or quarterly |
| Electricity and water | Individual consumption of the property | Tenant | Monthly or bi-monthly |
| Property tax (IBI) | Municipal tax on the property | Owner | Annual |
| Garbage collection fee | Waste collection and management | Usually owner | Annual or semi-annual |
| Maintenance and repairs | Repairs within the property or common areas | Owner or tenant depending on contract | As needed |
Who pays what? Responsibilities of tenants and owners
The distribution of additional costs should be clearly stated in the rental or purchase contract. Typically, tenants pay individual consumptions such as electricity and water, and sometimes part of the community fees. Owners usually assume taxes and structural repairs.
We recommend carefully reviewing the contract and clarifying with the landlord or real estate agent which costs are included and which are not. Transparency here will avoid future misunderstandings.
Managing and claiming costs: How to proceed?
To avoid surprises, it is important for both tenants and owners to request invoices and proof of additional costs. If you notice incorrect charges, you have the right to claim or negotiate an adjustment.
Community fees are usually managed by a property administration company that can provide detailed breakdowns and explain what each invoice includes.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
The most frequent mistakes related to additional costs include:
- Not reading or fully understanding the contract.
- Not checking the invoices received.
- Not asking about community fees or extra expenses.
- Confusing structural costs with personal consumptions.
The best way to avoid these mistakes is to be well informed before signing and maintain open communication with the owner or real estate agent.
Summary and conclusion
Additional costs in Mallorca are an integral part of real estate life, both for tenants and owners. Understanding what costs exist, who should pay them, and how to manage them will help you avoid surprises and better manage your budget.
Are you interested in buying or renting a property in Mallorca? Do not hesitate to contact local experts who will advise you with transparency and professionalism.