Choosing the right renovation company in Barcelona is one of the most critical decisions an international property owner will make.
Barcelona offers incredible architectural potential — from historic Eixample apartments to modern penthouses and coastal properties — but renovating here comes with local rules, technical constraints, and administrative complexity that are often underestimated by non-local owners.
This guide explains how to identify a reliable renovation company in Barcelona, what to expect in terms of process and costs, and how to avoid the most common mistakes that lead to delays, budget overruns, or legal issues.
Why Renovation in Barcelona Requires a Specialized Approach
Renovation in Barcelona is not just about construction — it is a regulated, multi-layered process involving:
- Municipal permits
- Technical documentation
- Building community rules
- Local construction standards
- Multiple professional figures (architects, engineers, builders)
For international property owners, the challenge is amplified by:
- Distance
- Language barriers
- Different expectations around quality and timelines
- Limited familiarity with Spanish construction practices
A renovation company that works well for locals is not automatically suitable for non-local or international clients.
1. Proven Experience with International Property Owners
The first thing to verify is who the company usually works with.
A renovation company experienced with international property owners will be able to:
- Communicate clearly in English (written and spoken)
- Explain Spanish regulations in practical, understandable terms
- Provide structured documentation rather than informal messages
- Anticipate concerns around timelines, warranties, and accountability
Ask specific questions such as:
- How many international clients have you worked with recently?
- Do you manage projects for owners living outside Spain?
- Can you provide examples of similar projects?
Clear, confident answers are a strong indicator of reliability.
2. Full Permit and Legal Management (Non-Negotiable)
One of the most common mistakes international property owners make is underestimating permit requirements.
In Barcelona, renovations typically fall into:
- Minor works (Obra Menor)
- Major works (Obra Mayor)
A professional renovation company should:
- Determine the correct permit type
- Coordinate with architects or technical professionals when required
- Submit applications to the local city council
- Ensure works comply with approved documentation
Starting works without the correct permit can result in:
- Immediate stop-work orders
- Significant fines
- Mandatory restoration of the property
Any company suggesting “starting while the permit is processed” should be avoided.
3. Transparent, Detailed Budgets
Trustworthy renovation companies provide itemized budgets, not generic estimates.
A proper renovation budget in Barcelona should clearly include:
- Demolition and waste management
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- Carpentry and custom elements
- Materials and finishes
- Project management
- VAT (IVA)
As a reference, full renovations in Barcelona usually range between €900 and €1,500 per square meter, depending on:
- Property condition
- Level of finish
- Structural complexity
- Accessibility of the building
Prices significantly below market averages often indicate:
- Incomplete scopes
- Poor-quality materials
- Future cost increases
4. Dedicated Project Management
Many renovation issues do not come from poor workmanship, but from lack of coordination.
International property owners should look for a company that offers:
- A dedicated project manager
- Clear timelines and milestones
- Regular progress updates
- Photo and video reporting
- One consistent point of contact
This is especially important if the owner:
- Lives abroad
- Cannot visit the site frequently
- Needs decisions to be implemented without delays
A structured management approach reduces uncertainty and protects the investment.
5. Understanding of Building Communities and Local Constraints
Most apartments in Barcelona are part of a homeowners’ association (comunidad de propietarios).
Renovation companies must be familiar with:
- Noise and work-hour regulations
- Structural limitations
- Shared element restrictions
- Approval requirements for certain interventions
Poor handling of community rules can lead to:
- Complaints
- Work stoppages
- Long-term conflicts
Experienced companies manage this proactively and discreetly.
6. Formal Contracts, Clear Scope, and Guarantees
Professional renovation companies operate with:
- Written contracts
- Clearly defined scope of work
- Payment schedules linked to milestones
- Workmanship guarantees
Avoid companies that:
- Rely on verbal agreements
- Request large upfront payments without structure
- Avoid formal documentation
A renovation contract is not bureaucracy — it is risk management.
7. Local Presence and Long-Term Accountability
International property owners should prioritize companies that:
- Are legally registered in Spain
- Have a stable local team
- Operate long-term in Barcelona
- Remain available after project completion
This matters for:
- Warranty issues
- Minor adjustments after delivery
- Future renovations or upgrades
Short-term or informal operators often disappear once the project ends.
Why International Property Owners Choose Lirian
At Lirian, we work with international property owners and non-local clients renovating high-value properties in Barcelona and Catalonia.
Our focus is on:
- Clear, professional communication
- Full permit and technical coordination
- Transparent pricing
- High construction standards
- Reliable project management for owners living abroad
We don’t aim to be the fastest or the cheapest —
we aim to deliver predictable, well-managed renovations that protect long-term value.
Planning a Renovation in Barcelona?
If you own a property in Barcelona or Catalonia and are considering a renovation, a professional consultation at the right time can prevent costly mistakes later.
📩 Contact Lirian to discuss:
- Feasibility and constraints
- Budget and timeline expectations
- Permit requirements
- Renovation strategy aligned with your goals
Clear decisions start with clear information.