ITE (Technical Building Inspection): What it is, Purpose, and Price

The Technical Building Inspection (ITE) is currently a mandatory requirement in Spain to ensure that constructions comply with the necessary minimum conditions of safety, habitability, and accessibility. This procedure is essential for maintaining the real estate stock in good condition and preventing all kinds of risks.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about it. We will be analyzing what the ITE is, what aspects it reviews, when it is necessary to carry it out, its difference from the IEEE, its cost, and the consequences of not performing it.

What is an ITE for a dwelling?

The ITE (Technical Building Inspection) is a mandatory report that assesses the state of conservation of a building, especially concerning its structure and foundation, facades and roofs, basic installations, and accessibility.

Its objective is to detect possible deficiencies that could affect the safety of occupants or the urban environment. Depending on the municipality, it may be required once the building reaches 30, 40, or 50 years of age.

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What is reviewed in an ITE?

The ITE is a comprehensive examination that analyzes various critical aspects of the building to ensure its safety and habitability. The competent technician is an architect or technical architect who performs a visual inspection and, in some cases, complementary tests, to evaluate the following parameters.

Structure and foundation

The condition of the structural elements that support the building, such as load-bearing walls, pillars, beams, and floor slabs, is examined. Signs of deterioration such as fissures, cracks, structural dampness, or deformations that could compromise stability are sought. Potential ground movements or differential settlements affecting the foundation are also reviewed.

Facades and roofs

Exterior walls are inspected for chipping, cracks, or risk of detachment, especially on cornices and balconies. On roofs and terraces, the condition of tiles, waterproofing, gutters, and downspouts must be checked to detect leaks or blockages.

Basic installations

Although an exhaustive analysis of the installations is not carried out, it is verified that they do not present obvious risks. The general condition of plumbing, sanitation, and visible electrical conduits is reviewed (without delving into specific certifications). In buildings with central gas installations, it is also checked that there are no leaks or serious defects.

Accessibility

This assesses whether there are architectural barriers that hinder access for people with reduced mobility, especially in common areas such as entrances, stairwells, or hallways. While full adaptation is not always required, critical points are identified.

General Maintenance

This analyzes the maintenance of common elements such as dampness in garages or storage rooms, the condition of access doors, lighting in common areas, and the cleanliness of courtyards or stairwells.

When is it required?

The ITE is mandatory for buildings exceeding a certain age, although deadlines vary by locality. Generally, it is required for residential buildings over 30 years old.

Most city councils (Madrid, Valencia, etc.) require it between 40 and 50 years, with subsequent revisions every 10 years. Many public grants for renovation also require a valid ITE to apply for subsidies.

In the case of sales or rentals, some autonomous communities require the ITE to be presented in notarial procedures. Furthermore, many municipalities have replaced the ITE with the Building Assessment Report (IEE), which also includes energy efficiency and accessibility.

What is the difference between ITE and IEE?

The main difference is their scope. The ITE (Technical Building Inspection) only assesses the safety and conservation of the property, focusing on the structure, facades, and basic installations. The IEE (Building Assessment Report), on the other hand, which is mandatory in some communities, expands the analysis with an energy efficiency certificate (consumption rating), an accessibility report, identifying architectural barriers and priority renovation requirements, if any.

While the ITE is a simpler procedure, the IEE is more comprehensive and is usually required for buildings applying for public aid.

ITE Classification based on deficiencies found:

After the inspection, the building can receive one of these ratings.

Favorable

This is given when there are no serious deficiencies and the building meets the minimum requirements.

Favorable with minor repairs

This is given when defects exist, but they do not compromise safety, and must be corrected within a specified period.

Unfavorable (serious or very serious)

This classification is given when there are structural or safety deficiencies. Works must be carried out within a short period, from 6 months to 2 years, and failure to act can result in fines or a prohibition of use.

Who is responsible for commissioning the ITE and who carries it out?

For single-family homes, the applicant is the owner. In apartment buildings, it must be commissioned by the community of owners, as agreed upon in a meeting.

The professional performing it must be a registered architect or technical architect, legally qualified to issue technical reports. In some cases, engineers specializing in building construction may also carry it out.

The report has official standing and must be submitted to the relevant city council.

How much does a technical report for a property cost?

The price varies depending on the size of the building, its location, with prices being higher in large cities, and the complexity of the inspection.

The price range is typically 150 to 400 euros for a single-family home, and 500 to 1,500 euros for an entire building.

What happens if you don't pass the ITE?

If the building receives an unfavorable rating, the consequences can be serious. There is an obligation to carry out repairs, and a period of 6 months to 2 years is granted to rectify the deficiencies. Technical projects must be submitted and the works justified.

City councils can also impose penalties, which vary depending on the severity (from 300 to 6,000 euros). Administrative restrictions, such as blocking building or renovation permits, may also be imposed. Furthermore, it can mean greater difficulty in selling or renting the property.

In extreme cases, such as a risk of collapse, the city council can order temporary evacuation or even demolition.

What happens if the ITE is not carried out?

Not carrying out the ITE when it is mandatory entails legal and practical consequences such as financial penalties, as city councils can fine owners for non-compliance; problems in legal procedures like difficulty selling or mortgaging the property, as notaries and banks often request the ITE; and even the inability to access public subsidies for renovations. Furthermore, civil liability is involved, and if an accident occurs due to lack of maintenance (e.g., from a detachment), owners could face lawsuits.

What happens if an ITE is unfavorable?

An unfavorable ITE requires action. Deficiencies can be classified as minor, requiring simple repairs, such as superficial cracks; serious, such as structural or safety problems like dampness in foundations; or very serious if they imply an imminent risk (e.g., beam corrosion).

The deadlines for correcting defects are 1 to 2 years for minor defects. For serious defects, it's 6 months to 1 year; and for very serious defects, action must be immediate and may require evacuation.

The consequences of not acting can be that the city council may carry out the works ex officio and pass the cost on to the owners. In extreme cases, the building can even be declared derelict.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who mandates the ITE?

Municipalities, as established in the Urban Rehabilitation, Regeneration, and Renovation Law.

What does the inspection certificate include?

It details the building's description, the deficiencies found, and the deadline to rectify them.

What happens if a resident doesn't want to undergo the ITE?

The community can compel them through a majority vote.

Who pays for a building's ITE?

All owners pay for it, through the community's funds.

Can an apartment with an unfavorable ITE be sold?

Yes, but the buyer assumes the obligation to renovate. This can make the sale more difficult and reduce the price.

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Conclusion

The ITE (Technical Building Inspection) is an essential procedure to ensure the safety of older buildings. Failure to comply can result in fines, prohibitions, and various legal issues. If your property is over 30 to 50 years old, it is advisable to consult with a technician to determine if this inspection is required to avoid potential penalties and keep the property in good condition.