Which documents should you check before buying a home?

Identify the property and who can sell it

Ask the seller for the access code to the permanent land registry certificate. Read the description, registered owners, mortgages, attachments and pending applications. Check that the unit and owner match the transaction. An existing mortgage requires a clear cancellation plan.

Ask for an up-to-date property tax record. The owner can obtain it through the Portuguese Tax Portal. Compare its tax article, unit, address, areas and holders with the registry and the actual property. This is a tax record. It does not by itself establish ownership or the lawfulness of building work.

Check authorised use and alterations

Request the use documents applicable to the property’s age and planning procedure. Check the municipal file, including plans and alterations. The guide to use permits and planning documents explains what to request and why exemption from presenting a document does not legalise building work.

Also check the applicable energy certificate and the housing technical file, where one exists. A garage used as a bedroom, an undocumented pool or areas differing from the plans need clarification before committing.

For an apartment, request the condominium statement

The seller should ask the administrator for a written statement of charges and debts for the unit. Compare it with recent minutes, the budget, special levies and approved works. A receipt for regular contributions does not replace this statement.

Expressly waiving the statement in the transfer deed can make the buyer responsible for the seller’s condominium debts. Read which documents to request and who pays the debts before accepting that clause.

Address unresolved matters in the preliminary contract

Identify what still depends on finance, the bank valuation, documents, discharge of charges or regularisation of works. The CPCV and buyer protection guide explains what to discuss with the person preparing the contract, including conditions, deadlines and treatment of the deposit.

Also budget for purchase taxes and their payment, registration and other expenses. Financial preparation should accompany the document checks.

Adapt the checks to the property

For land or a house with outbuildings, confirm boundaries, access and planning status. Follow the guide to buying land. If the seller inherited the property, clarify who must take part through the guide to selling an inherited home.