Zembelo GuideLetting Journey

Screening & Contract

Letting Journey — Step by step

Vet potential tenants thoroughly and sign a legally sound rental agreement.

Choosing the right guest or tenant is your primary defense against future headaches.

Ensuring safety through guest vetting and identification

For short-term rentals, vetting often happens through the platform's review systems. For direct bookings, it is vital to have clear house rules and demand identification in advance. Remember, by law, all guests over 14 must be reported to the police within 24 hours of arrival.

Protecting your investment during long-term lets

For long-term rentals, the risks are higher, and we strongly recommend taking out Rental Default Insurance (*Seguro de Impago*). The insurance provider checks the tenant's solvency, and if approved, you are covered for both unpaid rent and legal costs in the event of an eviction process.

Advisor Insight

"Never hand over keys based on a 'proof of transfer' PDF. Only give keys when the funds are cleared in your bank account."

What usually happens

  • Run a credit check and verified employment history
  • Draft a contract that includes 'Reclaiming for Personal Use' (the personal need clause)
  • Collect the first month's rent and the mandatory deposits
Timing
Week 4-5
People
Landlord, Tenant, Lawyer
Cost

Prepare

    Risks

    • Letting to a 'professional non-payer' without insurance

    Expert Q&A

    Rental default insurance. It costs about 4-5% of the annual rent but gives huge peace of mind for long-term lets. If a tenant stops paying, it covers the rent and legal costs.
    Occupation is a common fear. The best defense is a connected alarm system and a good relationship with neighbors. If police can prove the occupation is recent (within 48h), removal is much faster.
    For long-term: 1 month 'fianza' (legal req) plus 1-2 months additional guarantee. For holiday: a valid credit card on file that can be charged via the booking platform.
    Yes, even for short stays. Platforms have their own terms, but for direct bookings, you must have a signed document defining liability and check-out times.
    You can state the property is not suitable (e.g. due to steep stairs or an open pool), but be careful to avoid anything that could be interpreted as discrimination.