New Asbestos Law: What Changes for Properties in Catalonia?

The regulation will come into force on 3 October and provides that buyers and tenants receive information about the possible presence of asbestos in the property.

Law 8/2026, of 2 July, on the eradication of asbestos marks a new step forward in the identification, removal and management of asbestos-containing materials in Catalonia.

Published in the Official Gazette of the Government of Catalonia (DOGC) on 3 July, the regulation will come into force on 3 October 2026. One of its main new provisions is the introduction of a certificate confirming the presence or absence of asbestos in certain real estate transactions.

This measure may affect property owners, buyers and tenants, as well as homeowners’ associations and professionals involved in property management.

A document to be provided in property sales and rentals

According to Article 21 of the Law, when a property located in Catalonia is sold or rented, the transferring party must provide the buyer or tenant with a certificate confirming the presence or absence of asbestos.

Therefore, this requirement is not limited to residential property sales. It also applies to rentals and to the transfer for consideration of any type of property.

The aim is to ensure that anyone buying or renting a property has relevant information about the possible presence of asbestos-containing materials before completing the transaction.

What must the certificate include?

The Law does not yet specify all the practical details of the certificate. These issues will need to be defined through implementing regulations.

In principle, the document must confirm whether or not asbestos-containing materials are present in the property. If asbestos is detected, it is understood that information should be provided on its location, condition and the potential risk it may pose to people.

Given the nature of this assessment, the certificate should be issued by a qualified technical professional, such as an architect, technical architect or engineer.

What happens if asbestos is detected?

If the certificate confirms the presence of asbestos-containing materials, this circumstance must be recorded in the Land Registry, in accordance with the terms established by the Law.

By contrast, if the certificate confirms the absence of asbestos, this information would not need to be entered in the Registry.

What remains to be clarified?

Despite the imminent entry into force of the Law, several important aspects still need to be defined:

• The final content and characteristics of the certificate.
• The requirements and qualifications of the professionals authorised to issue it.
• The register of qualified companies and professionals.
• Other procedures related to asbestos management and removal.

For this reason, property owners and homeowners’ associations are advised to closely follow the updates published in the coming months. Understanding the new obligations in advance can help them better prepare for a future sale, rental or works affecting the building.

Do you have questions about how the new Asbestos Law may affect your property or homeowners’ association? At FORCADELL, we can help.