Setting up household utilities in Spain

Moving to Spain is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with a myriad of challenges, one of which is setting up utilities, including electricity, water, gas, internet, and other essential services.

The utility market in Spain is fully liberalised, which means that households can in theory choose between a selection of providers, although in practice the options will vary from region to region, as will the number of local providers. 

Expats renting property in Spain will find that household bills are not included in the monthly rental, and tenants will be free to select their providers or keep the existing connections. Some expats opt to initially rent a serviced apartment, where the monthly rent includes household utility bills. 

It is important that new tenants check the meter readings on the day they move into their new home.

Types of utility bills in Spain

Household utility bills typically cover various essential services and expenses. These bills will vary based on factors such as location, household size, and usage patterns.

Household utility bills in Spain include:

Electricity

As in most of Europe, the electric supply in Spain is around 220V AC with a frequency of 50Hz. Spanish plugs are the same as in the rest of continental Europe, with two pins (Type C and the older Type F). Expats who arrive with appliances that are not compatible with these sockets will need to invest in a power adapter.

In most cases, expats moving into their new home will need to contact the existing electricity supplier and give them the details of the person who will be paying the bills. Sometimes this is done ahead of time by the estate agent.

Those choosing to change supplier will need to contact the new supplier company and give them their name, bank details and the unified supply point code, which can be found on an old electricity bill. This can usually all be done online.

There is a wide selection of electricity suppliers in Spain, which ensures that the market is relatively competitive. The main electricity companies in Spain include: Endesa, Iberdrola, Naturgy, EDP España, CHC Energía and Acciona. Energía XXI is the supplier of last resort in Spain, and it serves as the default provider when customers move into a new property and haven't selected a specific electricity supplier.

Many homes in Spain now have smart meters which allow provides to take readings remotely, and payments are usually made by Direct Debit, where payments for utility bills are automatically taken out of by customer's bank account each month. 

There is now an English-language price comparison site that can search and compare the best available energy deals: www.energy.sicompare.com

Gas

Mains gas supply is not typically available in Spain; however, it is often cheaper than electricity in the areas where it is available. Some houses rely on bottled gas for cooking, in which case expats will need to arrange regular deliveries with a local distributor.  

Water

Water is provided and operated at local levels, either directly by the municipality or through a private company. However, expats won’t be able to choose their water provider when they set up their new home in Spain. 

The water in Spain is generally safe to drink, although the quality does vary from area, and some expats prefer to only drink bottled water due to the taste.

Municipal taxes

In Spain, municipal taxes are known as "Impuestos Municipales" or "Tasas Municipales". These taxes are levied by local municipalities and are separate from national taxes. Municipal taxes help to fund services such as waste collection, street cleaning, health facilities and local schools. The amount depends on the property's valuation.

Internet and phone

Charges for broadband internet and landline or mobile phone services are common household expenses. These bills may include fixed monthly charges as well as additional usage fees. When deciding on a broadband supplier, consider factors such as speed, reliability, customer reviews and contract terms. Check if there are charges for installation, equipment costs, and potential cancellation fees. Major telephone and broadband providers in Spain include Movistar, Vodafone and Orange. 

Other services

Depending on individual circumstances, there may be additional household bills for services like home security systems, satellite or cable TV subscriptions, home insurance and maintenance contracts.