Unlike in the UK or the US, Spain does not have a distinct profession equivalent to a “Surveyor.” Instead, Technical Architects (Arquitectos Técnicos) and Superior Architects (Arquitectos Superiores) are the professionals responsible for assessing the condition of buildings and overseeing construction projects.

If you are buying a property, you can hire one of these architects to carry out a technical inspection report (informe técnico). This report will highlight any visible or potential structural issues and provide an estimate of repair or renovation costs. While this isn’t exactly the same as a HomeBuyer’s Survey in the UK, it serves a very similar purpose—giving you peace of mind before committing to a purchase.

If you’re planning to build a new home on a plot of land, you will need a Superior Architect. This type of architect will work closely with you to design your project and will handle all the required steps and documentation to obtain a building license (licencia de obra) from the local Town Hall (Ayuntamiento).

From experience, I’ve found that choosing the right professional is not just about qualifications—it’s about trust and communication. Although I could recommend a few names, I believe it’s more effective for each client to find someone they feel personally comfortable with and who clearly understands their needs and expectations.

The British Consulate’s website provides a list of English-speaking architects working in Spain, which is a good starting point. You can contact them directly to discuss your plans and see if there’s a good personal fit.

Thanks to the internet, it’s also easy to find local architects in the specific area where you’re looking to buy or build. A short call or meeting can often be enough to get a sense of whether they’re the right person for your project.