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If you are currently renting a property in Spain, recent government measures may affect your rights, particularly if your rental contract is due to expire before 31 December 2027.
Under a new temporary decree introduced in March 2026, tenants may be entitled to request an extraordinary extension of their rental contract. This extension can be granted for up to two additional years, and importantly, it must be on the same terms and conditions as the existing contract. In most cases, the landlord is obliged to accept this extension if the tenant makes a formal request.
In addition, any increase in rent during this extended period is subject to a maximum cap of 2%, offering tenants protection against rising housing costs.
Importantly, this measure is already in force. As it has been introduced through a Royal Decree-Law, it is legally applicable now, and tenants can rely on it and prepare to make their request if their contract is due to expire.
However, tenants should also be aware that this is a temporary measure pending approval by Parliament. If it is not validated, it could be withdrawn, which may create some uncertainty in the longer term. For this reason, while the law can be used now, it is sensible to stay informed and act in good time.
There has also been some confusion regarding a possible three-year extension. This does not come directly from the new decree. Instead, it relates to existing provisions under Spain’s housing legislation. In certain areas officially declared as “zonas tensionadas” where rental demand and prices are particularly high, tenants may have the right to request a longer extension of up to three years, depending on the specific circumstances.
It is also important to note that these measures apply only to long term residential rental contracts (vivienda habitual). They do not apply to short-term rentals, tourist lets, or room rentals.
Finally, tenants should be aware that this extension is not automatic. A formal request must be made to the landlord, and this should be done in writing (for example, by email or burofax) to ensure there is clear proof of the request to benefit from these protections, so it is important to be prepared and act before the contract expires.
As always, given the evolving nature of housing legislation in Spain, it is advisable to seek guidance if you are unsure of your position or how these rules apply to your individual circumstances.
Please take a moment to read this carefully, as the details matter. These rules are not automatic, and misunderstanding them can lead to unnecessary problems.
