Nota Simple: What it is, What it's for, and How to request it

June 30, 2026

If you're thinking of buying, selling, or mortgaging a property, the "nota simple" is a document you shouldn't forget to request when making your decision. This report, issued by the Property Registry, is responsible for compiling the data of the property and its owner. This facilitates the process of buying or selling a property. [SEG 7] So, what exactly is this document? What is its purpose? What is its validity and how do you request it? At

Domoblock we will tell you everything about this record, from the information it provides to its legal aspects . Keep reading this article to discover what the"nota simple" is.What is a "nota simple"?

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The

"nota simple" is an official document issued by the Spanish Property Registry. It is a written summary of the legal status of a property. In other words, it is an essential document for the process of buying or selling of a house and to check for liens or encumbrances.

Additionally, this document identifies the property and states who its title holder or owner. Similarly, this record compiles physical information about the property, from its usable area to its cadastral reference number.

This report is not mandatory, but it is recommended to request it because it provides relevant information about the home you want to buy or sell. Therefore, with this data, you can learn about the different legal aspects of the property.

What is the 'nota simple' for?

The nota simple is used to be aware of the details of the property to be bought or sold, so its function is purely informative. Likewise, it is necessary for the interested party to request this document when appraising the property in question. Because said report will be required when signing the contract.

That said, this document is fundamental in a transaction or real estate investment. Therefore, you will need this file to carry out the following procedures:

  • Buying a home. By requesting this report, legal and supplementary information about the property can be verified, thus avoiding any misunderstandings or problems.
  • Selling a property. Similarly, the property's data can be validated, which will build trust with interested parties, potentially speeding up the process of sale.
  • Verify ownership. This helps confirm that the person selling the property is indeed its owner. This would prevent potential issues at the time of signing.
  • Check the property's condition. This document will verify the current condition of the property; its usable area, square meters, and other details.
  • Detect encumbrances. The document will show if there are any encumbrances, mortgages, or liens affecting the property.
  • Facilitate negotiation. If the buyer or seller has a 'nota simple', the other party wouldn't need to request it. This way, the negotiation is faster.

What is included in a 'nota simple'?

As mentioned earlier, the nota simple provides essential information about the ownership, legal status, condition, encumbrances, or liens of a property. The content of this document rarely varies and generally includes the following aspects:

  • Registration. The document contains information about the petition number or the reason for the request as indicated in the Property Registry. Therefore, it provides details on the property's formation and orientation.
  • Ownership. In addition to verifying the property owner's details, it will show how the property was acquired, whether inherited or purchased. It will also indicate the owner's percentage of the property.
  • Encumbrances. This record indicates any potential liens, mortgages, judicial auctions, or seizures that the property may have. If such encumbrances exist, the new owner would be responsible for them.
  • Description. This document compiles detailed information about the property's characteristics, such as its location, address, division, plot, and condition.
  • Limitations. The report highlights any restrictions the property might have. For instance, if it is subject to a special regime or has public protection.

How to request a "nota simple" for a property?

Requesting the "nota simple" is an essential part of any real estate transaction process. This document can be requested in person (or through intermediaries or real estate advisors) at the Property Registry.

This report can also be requested through online processing on the website of the College of Registrars. In this case, the document will be sent to the email address provided in the request. To request the "nota simple," payment must be made for the applicable fee.

Furthermore, when valuing a property for purchase or mortgage application, this document must be dated within the last three months. This ensures the transparency and legitimacy of the transaction.

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What do you need to request a nota simple?

There aren't many requirements to request a nota simple. However, the property owner must demonstrate a legitimate interest (stating the reason for the inquiry) to request the information in question. Therefore, to request this record, the following information is needed:

  • Registry code. The properties have a Unique Registry Code (CRU), which serves to identify all properties nationwide.
  • Registry details. Provide the Registry number where the property is registered, along with its registry details (province, municipality, etc.).
  • Cadastral reference. The property's cadastral reference or plot number, which can be obtained via the Cadastre's website.
  • Ownership. The property owner's details; owner's name, company name, National Identity Document (DNI) or passport.
  • Location. The exact location of the property for which the file is requested.

In this regard, it is recommended to provide all the aforementioned data so that the document request is not denied.

What is the validity of a property's 'nota simple'?

It is advisable to request an nota simple updated before finalizing a real estate transaction, as this document has a limited validity. That is to say, the legal status of a property can change at any time, which is why this record is considered valid for only a few months.

How much does the 'nota simple' cost?

Whether the nota simple is requested in person or through the Property Registrars' website, a fee of 9.02 euros. This cost does not include taxes or withholdings and is billed directly to the applicant. If an English copy of the document is required, an additional €30 will be charged.

Alternatively, the request can also be managed through real estate agents, although the cost of the report will be included in their fees. Additionally, you can opt for intermediary websites, whose managers will charge between 20 and 30 euros for the process.

Who should pay for a property's 'nota simple'?

Usually, both the buyer and the seller of the property can request a 'nota simple'. However, it is customary for the request and payment for this document to be borne by the buyer, as they will need it for the real estate transaction. This process may vary depending on what has been agreed upon.

Similarly, it is recommended that the seller also obtains the document, as it will expedite the property sale process.

Difference between 'nota simple' and 'certificación registral'

The 'nota simple' and the 'certificación registral' are completely different documents, although they are often confused. The former is an informational record whose function is to gather information on the basic content of the Registry. In other words, to reflect the legal status of a property, along with its ownership, encumbrances, or liens.

Whereas the 'certificación registral' is a public document signed by the Registrars. This certificate serves to detail the relevant content of a property and in turn verify the current rights of the owner before third parties (courts and public bodies). Generally, requesting it incurs a higher cost.

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Conclusion

In summary, the nota simple is an indispensable tool in the process of a real estate transaction. This document provides a concise and updated overview of the legal aspects of a property, as it allows you to know the property's history and verify its ownership.

Sergio Navarro

Expert in blockchain, investments, and personal finance

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