Property Crime in Spain - What You Need to Know

Whether you’re a Spanish resident buying a property or a foreign national who has decided to settle elsewhere, protecting your home from theft is a priority. However, no matter how many precautions you take, the worst, unfortunately, can still happen. If a property crime has been committed in Spain and you aren’t familiar with the law or language, it can be even harder to resolve. Fortunately, Spanish criminal lawyers can assist.

In our comprehensive guide, discover the most common types of property crime in Spain, as well as the various punishments and the measures being taken by authorities to tackle property crime in Spain. We will also discuss how Spanish criminal lawyers, team at Giambrone and Partners, can assist.

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• What are the Most Common Types of Property Crime in Spain?

Discover more about the different types of property crime in Spain

• What Are the Punishments for Property Crime in Spain?

If you are found guilty of property crime, there are various penalties that can be issues

• What Measures Are Being Taken to Reduce Property Crime in Spain?

Find out how authorities are aiming to tackle property crime

• How Can Spanish Criminal Lawyers Help with My Property Crime Case?

Discover how qualified Spanish property lawyers can help you with your case

• How Giambrone and Partners Can Help

Here’s how we can assist

• Frequently Asked Questions

We answer some common queries

What are the Most Common Types of Property Crime in Spain?

In Spain, common examples of property crime include:

• Burglary and Robbery: whereas burglary refers to the unlawful entry into a home with the intent to steal, robbery uses force or the threat of force, both of which are common examples of property crime.
• Larceny: the unlawful taking of personal property, whether that be from someone’s person or their home.
• Vehicular Theft: the majority of cars in Spain are stolen from driveways and outside homes.
• Vandalism and Property Damage: broken windows, graffiti, and arson are common examples of vandalism on private properties.

What Are the Punishments for Property Crime in Spain?

The level of punishment for property crimes in Spain depends on the severity of the crime, ranging from community service to imprisonment.

In terms of theft, if the value of the stolen goods is less than €400, the perpetrator can be punished with community service or a fine. Theft of goods valued over €400 can carry a prison sentence of up to two years. If the crime involves damage to a property that exceeds €400, this is punishable by a fine of between six and 24 months; if the damage is less than this amount, the fine will be smaller.

Breaking and entering can result in imprisonment of between six months and two years; if violence or intimidation is used, this penalty can be increased to four years. Vehicular theft punishments can vary depending on the circumstances of the crime and its severity (whether or not violence was used, and the value of the vehicle). Punishments can range from a fine to imprisonment. If the vehicle is not returned to the rightful owner within 48 hours in the condition it was in at the time of the theft, it is classed as robbery.

Arson is a more serious offence, and can carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years. If you are the victim of a property crime or find yourself accused of such, get in touch with our experienced Spanish criminal lawyers today.

What Measures Are Being Taken to Reduce Property Crime in Spain?

Spanish authorities and homeowners alike are taking steps to reduce property crime, such as strengthening legal frameworks, promoting crime prevention policies and investing in anti-theft devices. Examples of measures include:

• A focus on organised property crime: Europol, the European Union (EU) Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation, is working to address organised property crime, including the theft of valuable goods and car theft.
• Introducing anti-theft devices: business owners and homeowners are encouraged to invest in alarms, CCTV cameras and security lights.
• The Spanish Neighbourhood Watch scheme: volunteer groups such as the Neighbourhood Watch can help keep streets safer.

How Can Spanish Criminal Lawyers Help with My Property Crime Case?

Spanish criminal lawyers can help you in various ways, including:

• Legal assistance and case assessment: lawyers can evaluate the charges you have brought (or the charges brought against you, if you are the accused), and develop an airtight case. They will also explain your rights to you and assess the evidence presented by the police and the defence/prosecution.
• Defence/prosecution strategy: lawyers can develop and negotiate a strategy for your defence or victim impact statement, depending on your position.
• Support during the course of a trial: Spanish criminal defence lawyers can support you from your initial interview/report all the way until the end of the trial.
• Communication and translation: Spanish criminal lawyers who are based in England can interpret any documents or police reports to avoid anything becoming lost in translation. Lawyers can communicate easily with each other, saving you from any extra stressors.

At Giambrone and Partners, our Spanish criminal lawyers have vast knowledge of Spanish property and criminal law, giving you peace of mind that your case is in the right hands. Our lawyers can communicate easily with Spanish authorities, saving you the problem of searching for a translator. You can find out more about our Spanish criminal lawyers here.

How Giambrone and Partners Can Help

At Giambrone & Partners, our experienced Spanish criminal lawyers specialise in handling property crime cases. We offer expert knowledge of Spanish criminal and property law, as well as seamless communication with Spanish authorities and full legal support from start to finish, whether you're a victim or accused.

To enquire about a free consultation, contact our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Specific Regions in Spain That Have Higher Rates of Property Crime?

There are specific areas in Spain are more susceptible to property crime, such as Catalonia, Andalusia, Valenica and the Balearic Islands.

How Can Residents Protect Themselves from Property Crime in Spain?

Homeowners should invest in anti-theft devices to protect their home and its contents, such as CCTV cameras, alarms, and locks. It is also a good idea for residents to choose home insurance or contents insurance policies.

How Do I Report a Property Crime in Spain?

You can visit your local police station, or file a report online for minor offences. If you are English speaking, you can report crimes at some Foreign Tourist Assistance Service (SATE) offices.

Has Tourism Affected Property Crime Trends in Spain?

In the past, tourism has been linked to certain property crimes, particularly in tourist hotspots. Studies suggest that tourism can contribute to a rise in theft, as they can be easy targets due to their unfamiliarity with the location. Research has also shown a relationship between Airbnb rental properties and property crime, especially in Barcelona.

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