Cosmetic changes: usually no permit needed
Replacing cabinets, worktops and appliances in the same layout — without moving plumbing, gas or load-bearing walls — is normally classed as a minor works declaration (comunicación previa) in most Costa del Sol town halls, not a full building licence. It's quick to file and doesn't hold up your start date by much.
When you do need a licencia de obras
If you're moving the sink or hob to a new wall, knocking through to open up the kitchen to a living area, or changing gas or electrical routing, most ayuntamientos require a proper building licence (licencia de obra menor or mayor depending on scope). This takes longer to approve, so it affects your start date.
Community rules can add another layer
If you're in an apartment building, your comunidad de propietarios may have its own rules about working hours, lift use for materials, and notifying neighbours — separate from anything the town hall requires. We deal with this regularly in dense areas like Fuengirola and El Higuerón.
We handle the paperwork conversation for you
When we visit to measure, we'll tell you straightaway whether your project needs a permit and what that means for your timeline — before you commit to anything. It's part of the free, no-obligation quote.