Renovation Fuengirola Mijas foreign owners: real costs, permits, timelines and key tips. Expert guide for expats on Costa del Sol. Request your free quote.
Renovating in Fuengirola and Mijas: what foreign owners need to know before starting
If you own a property in Fuengirola or Mijas and are considering a renovation, the key is understanding the local market, regulations and realistic costs before you begin. As a foreign owner, you can expect a full apartment renovation in Fuengirola to cost between €25,000 and €45,000, a villa renovation in Mijas between €50,000 and €120,000, and a bathroom refurbishment between €8,000 and €15,000. Timelines range from 4 to 16 weeks depending on scope. This guide covers everything you need to know about renovation Fuengirola Mijas foreign owners — from permits and budgets to managing the project remotely.
Real costs of renovation in Fuengirola and Mijas (2026)
Below is a price table based on real projects carried out by our team in 2025-2026. Prices include materials, labour and project management, but exclude VAT and architect fees where applicable.
| Type of renovation | Fuengirola (apartment) | Mijas (villa/chalet) |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom refurbishment (standard) | €8,000 – €12,000 | €10,000 – €15,000 |
| Bathroom refurbishment (premium, Porcelanosa, Duravit) | €12,000 – €18,000 | €15,000 – €25,000 |
| Kitchen renovation (standard) | €10,000 – €18,000 | €15,000 – €25,000 |
| Kitchen renovation (premium, Santos, Bulthaup) | €18,000 – €30,000 | €25,000 – €45,000 |
| Full apartment renovation (80-100 m²) | €25,000 – €45,000 | – |
| Full villa renovation (150-300 m²) | – | €50,000 – €120,000 |
| Flooring installation (per m², porcelain tile) | €35 – €60 | €35 – €60 |
| Painting and decoration (per m²) | €12 – €20 | €12 – €20 |
Key differences between Fuengirola and Mijas for foreign owners
Fuengirola: urban apartments and tourist rentals
Fuengirola is a coastal town with a high density of apartments, many built between 1970 and 2000. Renovations here often involve updating kitchens, bathrooms and flooring to meet modern standards and attract holiday renters. The town has a large expat community, so many local trades are accustomed to working with English-speaking clients. Building permits are managed by the Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola and typically take 4-8 weeks for minor works. For structural changes or full renovations, a licensed architect is required.
Mijas: villas, countryside and coastal developments
Mijas is a larger municipality that includes Mijas Pueblo, Mijas Costa and La Cala de Mijas. Renovations here range from countryside villas to modern coastal apartments. The main difference is that Mijas properties often require more extensive work on plumbing, electrical systems and structural elements, especially older villas. Permits are issued by the Ayuntamiento de Mijas and can take 6-12 weeks. For villas in protected or rural areas, additional environmental permits may be needed.
Permits and legal requirements for foreign owners
Before starting any renovation, foreign owners must understand the local permit system. In both Fuengirola and Mijas, the following applies:
- Minor works (obra menor): For bathroom, kitchen or flooring updates without structural changes. Requires a licencia de obra menor (cost: €100-€300). Processing time: 2-4 weeks.
- Major works (obra mayor): For structural changes, extensions or full renovations. Requires a licencia de obra mayor and a project signed by an architect. Cost: 2-4% of the project value. Processing time: 6-12 weeks.
- Community approval: If you live in a community of owners (comunidad de vecinos), you need written permission for any work that affects common areas or the building facade.
- NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero): Essential for signing contracts with builders and utilities. If you don't have one, we can help you obtain it.
For more details on building regulations, consult the Código Técnico de la Edificación (Spanish Technical Building Code).
How to manage your renovation remotely from abroad
Many foreign owners cannot be present during the renovation. Here is how to ensure a smooth process:
- Choose a turnkey renovation company: A single point of contact that manages everything from permits to final cleaning. This is the most reliable option for remote owners.
- Use video calls and photo updates: We provide weekly video updates and a shared photo folder so you can monitor progress.
- Sign a fixed-price contract: Avoid surprises by agreeing on a detailed budget with a contingency of 10-15% for unforeseen issues.
- Set up a Spanish bank account: For paying contractors and utilities. Many banks offer online accounts for non-residents.
Our renovations for expats service is specifically designed for remote management.
Our experience in Fuengirola and Mijas
Costa del Sol Reformas has been operating in the region since 2015. Over the past decade, we have completed more than 120 renovation projects in Fuengirola and Mijas alone. Our team includes licensed architects, project managers and skilled trades who speak English, Spanish and Swedish. We have worked on apartments in Fuengirola's town centre, villas in Mijas Costa and country properties in Mijas Pueblo. Our typical project value ranges from €20,000 to €150,000. We understand the specific challenges foreign owners face — from permit delays to material sourcing — and we handle them proactively.
Frequently asked questions about renovation in Fuengirola and Mijas
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Fuengirola?
A standard bathroom renovation in Fuengirola costs between €8,000 and €12,000 including materials and labour. For a premium bathroom with Porcelanosa tiles and Duravit fixtures, expect €12,000 to €18,000. The project typically takes 3-4 weeks.
How long does a full apartment renovation take in Mijas?
A full apartment renovation in Mijas (80-100 m²) usually takes 8-12 weeks. This includes demolition, plumbing, electrical, flooring, kitchen, bathroom and painting. Timelines can extend to 16 weeks if structural changes or custom joinery are involved.
Do I need a permit for a kitchen renovation in Fuengirola?
For a kitchen renovation that does not involve structural changes or moving plumbing/electrical points, a minor works permit (licencia de obra menor) is sufficient. This costs around €100-€200 and takes 2-3 weeks to process. Your renovation company can handle this on your behalf.
Can I renovate my Mijas villa while living abroad?
Yes, many foreign owners renovate remotely. The key is to hire a turnkey renovation company that manages the entire process — permits, materials, labour and quality control. We provide weekly video updates and a dedicated project manager who communicates via WhatsApp or email.
What brands are commonly used in premium renovations on the Costa del Sol?
For tiles, Porcelanosa is the most popular choice in Fuengirola and Mijas. For bathrooms, Duravit and Dornbracht are standard for premium projects. For kitchens, Santos, Bulthaup and SieMatic are common. We source all materials locally to avoid shipping delays.
How do I find a reliable builder in Fuengirola as a foreigner?
Look for a company with a physical office in the area, positive reviews on Google and platforms like habitissimo.es, and experience working with foreign clients. Ask for references from other expats. A reliable builder will provide a detailed written quote, a fixed-price contract and a clear timeline.
What is the difference in renovation costs between Fuengirola and Mijas?
Fuengirola apartments are generally more affordable to renovate due to their smaller size and standard layouts. Mijas villas, especially larger or older properties, often require more extensive work on foundations, roofs and systems, resulting in higher costs per square metre. Expect a 15-25% premium for villa renovations in Mijas compared to similar-sized apartments in Fuengirola.
How does the community of owners approval work in Fuengirola?
If your renovation affects common areas (facade, roof, entrance) or makes noise during restricted hours, you need written approval from the community president or the homeowners' association. This usually requires a simple majority vote. We help our clients obtain this approval before starting work.
Why choose Costa del Sol Reformas for your renovation in Fuengirola or Mijas?
We are a local company with a proven track record in the area. Our team speaks English, Spanish and Swedish, making communication easy for Scandinavian and British owners. We handle everything from permits to final cleaning, and we offer fixed-price contracts with no hidden costs. For a detailed look at our services, visit our full home renovation page or our bathroom renovation page.
For more information on property prices and market trends in the area, check idealista.com.
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Planning a renovation in Fuengirola or Mijas? Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote. We will visit your property, discuss your requirements and provide a detailed budget within 48 hours. Call us at 612 286 273 or fill in our online form.
Preguntas Frecuentes
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Fuengirola?
A standard bathroom renovation in Fuengirola costs between €8,000 and €12,000 including materials and labour. For a premium bathroom with Porcelanosa tiles and Duravit fixtures, expect €12,000 to €18,000. The project typically takes 3-4 weeks.
How long does a full apartment renovation take in Mijas?
A full apartment renovation in Mijas (80-100 m²) usually takes 8-12 weeks. This includes demolition, plumbing, electrical, flooring, kitchen, bathroom and painting. Timelines can extend to 16 weeks if structural changes or custom joinery are involved.
Do I need a permit for a kitchen renovation in Fuengirola?
For a kitchen renovation that does not involve structural changes or moving plumbing/electrical points, a minor works permit (licencia de obra menor) is sufficient. This costs around €100-€200 and takes 2-3 weeks to process. Your renovation company can handle this on your behalf.
Can I renovate my Mijas villa while living abroad?
Yes, many foreign owners renovate remotely. The key is to hire a turnkey renovation company that manages the entire process — permits, materials, labour and quality control. We provide weekly video updates and a dedicated project manager who communicates via WhatsApp or email.
What brands are commonly used in premium renovations on the Costa del Sol?
For tiles, Porcelanosa is the most popular choice in Fuengirola and Mijas. For bathrooms, Duravit and Dornbracht are standard for premium projects. For kitchens, Santos, Bulthaup and SieMatic are common. We source all materials locally to avoid shipping delays.
How do I find a reliable builder in Fuengirola as a foreigner?
Look for a company with a physical office in the area, positive reviews on Google and platforms like habitissimo.es, and experience working with foreign clients. Ask for references from other expats. A reliable builder will provide a detailed written quote, a fixed-price contract and a clear timeline.
What is the difference in renovation costs between Fuengirola and Mijas?
Fuengirola apartments are generally more affordable to renovate due to their smaller size and standard layouts. Mijas villas, especially larger or older properties, often require more extensive work on foundations, roofs and systems, resulting in higher costs per square metre. Expect a 15-25% premium for villa renovations in Mijas compared to similar-sized apartments in Fuengirola.
How does the community of owners approval work in Fuengirola?
If your renovation affects common areas (facade, roof, entrance) or makes noise during restricted hours, you need written approval from the community president or the homeowners' association. This usually requires a simple majority vote. We help our clients obtain this approval before starting work.
