A guide to setting up your utilities in Spain

Moving to Mallorca, the enchanting Mediterranean paradise, is a dream come true for many expats. However, amidst the allure of this island's natural beauty, there are practicalities that require your attention.

One of the key tasks for expatriates is setting up utilities. Whether you're dealing with electricity, water, mobile services, or internet connections, this guide will provide you with essential insights into the Spanish utilities systems and ensure your new home is ready for a comfortable and convenient life. Let's dive into the first utility:

Electricity in Mallorca

Electricity is the lifeblood of any modern home. In Mallorca, several major electricity companies, including Groupo Endesa, Iberdrola, and Repsol, are responsible for keeping your lights on. While the energy market has seen liberalisation in many areas, it's crucial to be aware of the available providers, as some cater to specific language needs, such as English and German. Make sure to browse these providers & ensure you get the best deal for your home or rental.

When you acquire or rent a property (unless utilities are already included), your initial priority should be ensuring that your electricity supply is active. Typically, this involves reaching out to the relevant supplier and scheduling a technician's visit. Keep in mind that in most cases, you'll need to communicate with the supplier in Spanish.

If you've purchased a property in Spain, your estate agent may assist you in transferring the utilities into your name. To avoid inheriting any unpaid debts from the previous owner, it's imperative to verify that all previous bills have been settled and that the contract is officially registered in your name from the date you assume ownership.

Our Tip: Make sure to take photos of the electricity meter readers before moving into your new home, to avoid any conflicts in the future & making sure that you are paying the right amount.

For those considering building a new home in a non-urban area, budget for the possibility of connecting electricity to your plot, which can come with a substantial cost, potentially reaching up to 25,000 Euros, depending on the distance from the nearest hub. Moving on towards our second utility:

Water in Mallorca

Accessing water in Mallorca offers three main options. In larger towns and cities, you can typically connect with a utility provider and pay for water services on a bi-monthly basis.

In smaller towns and rural developments where a utility provider is absent, you might rely on a household water tank (Aljibe) that is replenished by a water delivery service. In certain rural locations, you have the option of a well (Pozo), but securing planning approval from your local municipality is a prerequisite.

Given that water is a valuable and expensive resource in Mallorca, it's advisable to adopt sustainable practices, such as recycling, mindful water sourcing, and monitoring water usage, especially for property renovations and new constructions. Last by not least, the mobile & internet services category:

Mobile and Internet Services

Staying connected in Mallorca is essential. If you're within the EU, maintaining your existing tariff is straightforward, thanks to EU Roaming regulations. However, if you are a non-EU resident or simply prefer a local tariff, obtaining a pre-paid SIM card from one of the main providers or their subsidiary companies is a convenient option.

For those seeking postpaid contracts, various providers offer introductory promotions, some of which include special rates for the first six months. Additionally, providers differ in terms of coverage in various areas of the island, so it's wise to compare options before committing to a long-term contract.

In certain areas of Mallorca, particularly in the Tramuntana or coastal regions, traditional cable internet might not be available, and mobile reception can be inconsistent with certain providers. Before making long-term commitments, consider seeking advice from the local community or online resources. You may also find that "Starlink" high-speed internet is the most convenient & accessible for your location, if no traditional cables are set in place.

We hope that with this short & concise Spanish utilities guide, you'll be well-prepared to set up services in Mallorca, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home on this enchanting island. Embrace the natural beauty, and let these practicalities fall seamlessly into place as you embark on your exciting journey to Mallorca! Welcome to your new home in Mallorca!