Land Registration in Portugal
Do you own a property in Algarve? Then this is important to you…
Put simply the Portuguese land registry is not up to date and the decision was taken to rectify this via a national project entitled “SiNErGIC”, with the Loule region being one of the first areas chosen. The key name is “Cadastro Predial” where the owner makes a “Declaração de Titularidade”
This was to commence from 30th August 2013 and all owners are obliged to formally register their boundaries with the local authorities. Originally this was to be completed by July 2014 but has since been extended to 29th May 2015. Areas outside of the Loule region will follow.
Once you realise that the central records are not accurate this make perfect sense for owners for their own protection and to avoid potential conflict with neighbours and this is how it is marketed. It also offers the government an opportunity to check if anyone has illegally extended their boundaries via a “land grab”, this is not mentioned in the marketing.
For the purpose of this project property can be considered as being one of four types:
- Part of a condominium.
- A detached house possibly with a garden and pool.
- A detached house with an attached plot of land.
- A plot of land.
In case 1 the responsibility lies with the appointed Administration, in cases 2, 3 & 4 it lies with the owner. If done within the allocated time there is no fee, if it is not done a fee and as yet undefined penalties may be payable.
If you would like more information e-mail: marketing@NortonMackenzie.com
Norton & Mackenzie offer a comprehensive portfolio of property management, long term rentals and quality holiday lets in Vilamoura.
In addition we are fully conversant with the new law regarding renting out holiday properties in Portugal should you require advice about getting a license and being compliant. Previously there were no active checks carried out, no action actually taken and hence no penalties transpiring. Under the new regime the newly appointed authorities (ASAE) have full transparency from analysing internet advertising to physical visits to properties to check who is in residence. More importantly they have the resource to do this which the local councils never had. There is evan a liaison between the tax office and utility Companies to cross check consumption in “empty” properties. 2015 will be the year of enforcement.
If you would like more information e-mail: marketing@NortonMackenzie.com
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