The construction sector in Spain faces a series of regulatory changes in 2025 that will impact the design, energy efficiency and sustainability of buildings. The evolution of regulations aims to improve structural safety, reduce environmental impact and optimise the habitability of dwellings. In this article, we analyse the most relevant changes and how they will affect professionals in the sector and homeowners.
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Updating of the Technical Building Code (CTE)
The Technical Building Code (Código Técnico de la Edificación (CTE)) continues to evolve in 2025 with new requirements for energy efficiency and sustainability. Among the most important changes are:
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Higher energy efficiency requirements: The requirements to reduce the energy consumption of buildings are reinforced, especially in air conditioning and thermal insulation.
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Mandatory use of renewable energy: The requirements for the installation of solar panels and geothermal energy systems in new buildings are extended.
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Improvements in accessibility and structural safety: New guidelines to ensure more inclusive and extreme weather-resistant buildings.
These changes will affect new building projects and the planning of new construction in Spain.
Energy efficiency and sustainability legislation
New European regulations have prompted changes in national regulations to achieve emission reduction targets and optimisation of energy consumption in buildings.
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Mandatory Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB): All new buildings will have to comply with stricter energy efficiency criteria.
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Sustainable building materials: The use of recyclable, bioclimatic and low environmental impact materials is encouraged.
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Mandatory energy retrofitting in old buildings: In certain cases, owners’ associations will have to improve the thermal insulation and energy efficiency of existing buildings.
For those planning renovations or refurbishments, it is essential to adapt projects to these new requirements. If you need to adapt your property, please consult our services of reforms.
New requirements for structural and earthquake safety
In 2025, updates to structural safety regulations are introduced to improve the resistance of buildings to seismic hazards and extreme loads:
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More demanding structural design in seismic risk zones.
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Reinforcement of fire regulations, with higher requirements for evacuation systems and fireproof materials.
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Greater control of foundations and ground stability, which will impact on new construction projects and structural rehabilitation.
These changes will affect both the planning of new buildings and the retrofitting of existing structures. In order to meet these requirements, it is essential to have a team of experts in the following areas structural calculations.
Digitisation and smart construction
The digital transformation in architecture and construction continues to advance with regulations that favour the implementation of technology in construction processes:
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BIM (Building Information Modelling) mandatory in public projects and progressively in the private sector.
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Greater control over certifications and digital licences, speeding up administrative procedures.
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Use of artificial intelligence and big data in the planning and optimisation of resources on site.
The digitalisation of the sector is key to improving efficiency in the planning and execution of architectural projects.
Adapting to the new building regulations by 2025
The changes to building regulations in Spain for 2025 represent a move towards more sustainable, safe and efficient buildings. Adapting to these changes is key for developers, architects and builders, as well as for owners who want to carry out new constructions or renovations.
If you need advice on how to adapt your project to the new regulations, consult our team of architectural experts.