The only way is to get a good lawyer and today I think in general the level of advice is good provided you do not use one recommended by the builder
Couple of things about the example on TV
These villas are not connected to the mains and are on what is known as ‘ builders electric and water’ and this is because the paperwork was never in order to get connected. So they were definitely not legal at that time
No criticism of the owners as at that time many people were unfortunately allowed to complete in these circumstances on the basis that ‘it is Spanish custom’ !!!
But there are situations where the paper work appears to be in order and they are connected to services, but the legality is being contested because of corruption in granting the permits
Fortunately there are steps being taken to legalise many situations similar to both of these, but the process is slow and whilst, it is generally thought that the majority will be OK , some will not…eg built in Ramblas
That does not take the worry away from the owners, as nothing is certain yet, so lets all wish them luck
In every economy, there will always be some corruption and irregularities in planning where large profits can be made and UK is no exception, but I do think that in Spain today the situation has now been tightened up for future purchasers
Now there are locations where buyers are in this situation ,but are legal and waiting for the licence of first occupation to get connected , and there is nothing wrong with the paper work, it’s that it has to be finalised
Naturally you should not complete unless everything is 100%
In Almeria, I understand that you can apply to the local council for confirmation that a property is not subject to legality investigation-job for the lawyers
So if you come across this situation, it is only an indication of legality and should only apply to new build properties
If a modern re sale is not connected then walk away…. with fincas, it is a different world and you need to take exceptional care and advice
If you pay a deposit on off plan you need a bank guarantee
Otherwise if you proceed in the same way and with the same caution as you do buying in the UK, then everything should go OK
After all the Spanish are buying and selling homes all the time and the system works for them so with due diligence it should work for UK buyers
Some recommend that, even if you are a cash buyer, you should get a small mortgage As if it is granted by a Bank, then the property must be legal…but this has not always been the case in the past and even today may not be, if you are taking over the builders mortgage!
Bit long winded as simply use a good lawyer