Spain faces up to 18‑month waits for home renovations amid construction labour shortage

Homeowners in Spain are encountering waiting periods of up to a year and a half before construction firms can begin renovation work. Property‑management companies attribute the delay to a severe shortage of qualified workers across all trades, from bricklayers to electricians and carpenters. Samuel Soto of Samuel Gestión Fincas warned that "for large works the minimum wait is a year; for smaller jobs it depends on the company," adding that even elevator‑modernisation projects are back‑logged.

The labour crunch is compounded by rising minimum‑wage costs, which discourage firms from hiring despite a steady flow of orders. The impact falls on consumers, who may face higher prices or postponed improvements. Teresa Suárez, president of the Galician Association of Property Administrators, noted that some estimates now predict quotes will be offered for projects slated to start in late 2027 with work commencing in 2028, highlighting the uncertainty facing homeowners.