In Barcelona's older buildings it is wise to rule out structural defects before buying. We explain how to protect yourself.
Buying & Selling · Updated October 2026 · 5 min read
Aluminosis (the degradation of the aluminous cement used in the 1950s-70s) and other structural defects —cracks, rebar corrosion, damp— are real risks in Barcelona's older housing stock.
They may constitute a hidden defect and give the right to claim against the seller for repair, a price reduction or rescission of the sale.
In whole buildings, we integrate this into the due diligence.
Signs such as bulging slabs or cracks, an unfavourable ITE, or special levies for structural reinforcement in the minutes. When in doubt, a technical report before buying is advisable.
If it was not detectable during the viewing and affects habitability or safety, it may be a hidden defect and give the right to claim against the seller.
It is a degradation of concrete made with high-alumina cement, common in buildings from the 1950s to 1970s, which reduces its strength and can compromise the structure. It requires a technical diagnosis.
With the building's technical inspection (ITE), a review of the association's minutes and, if in doubt, a report from an architect or surveyor. We coordinate it as part of the due diligence.
If it is a hidden defect attributable to the seller, you can claim against them; if it affects common elements, the association usually covers it via a special levy. We assess the route case by case.
We coordinate the technical survey and secure the contract before you buy.
