Rules & Regulations

How to obtain a letting licence

Bear in mind that this involves a great deal of paperwork (see below), is expensive and takes time, therefore you should apply for the licence well in advance. In some areas where the rental market is saturated, the EOT has stopped issuing licences.

WARNING If you plan to make an income from letting, find out if licences are available in the area where you plan to buy before committing yourself to a purchase.

Requirements for the licence vary depending on the area and the type of property you plan to rent (e.g. self-catering villa, apartment or bed and breakfast), but generally include the following:

For the applicant:

• Certificate of no criminal record (available from the police in your home country or from the Greek police if you're resident);
• Completed application form;
• Health certificate if a non-EEA national;
• Latest tax return;
• Signed declaration of intention to rent.

• Certificate issued by a qualified architect stating that plumbing and sewerage (including cesspits) meet official requirements.
• Environmental Survey: This is provided by a local architect who must inspect the property to ensure that it's suitable for rental. The survey can cost up to €1,500.
• Fire Certificate: The property is inspected by the local chief fire inspector who checks the property for adequate fire exits and fire extinguishers, and for fire hazards in the immediate area. Fire extinguishers must also be inspected and stamped annually.
• Original and a copy of the planning permission and/or building licence.
• Proof that payment of local taxes is up-to-date.
• Proposed rental agreement or contract.
• Statement from an architect certifying that the property conforms to earthquake building regulations.
• Some areas have specific regulations for swimming pools.

Some foreigners let property without obtaining a licence and apparently have no problems with the authorities. This is, however, illegal and could lead to serious problems. If a guest at your property has an accident and you don't have a licence, you could be prosecuted and face a prison sentence. You may also find that locals in your area who have gone to the trouble and expense to obtain a licence report you to the local tax authorities who will undoubtedly take legal action.

This article is an extract from Buying a Home in Greece
Click here to get a copy now.

Greece Property Guide Subjects:

Introduction	Advantages & Disadvantages	Buying for Investment in Greece	Greece Estate Agents
Cost of Property	Property Prices in Greece	Purchasing Fees	Inspections & Surveys
Buying Off Plan in Greece	Conveyance	Purchase Procedure	Completion
Letting Intro	Letting Rules & Regulations:	Greece Contracts & Taxation	Letting Rates in Greece
Using an Agent for Letting	Doing Your Own Letting	Mortgages & Loans in Greece

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