Costa del Sol – Marbella, Málaga & Estepona

In most cases, yes. Villa extensions on the Costa del Sol almost always require a Licencia de Obra Mayor, particularly if the works involve:

• Increasing the floor area
• Altering the external appearance of the building
• Structural changes
• Adding additional storeys or roof alterations

Even seemingly modest extensions can exceed plot occupation limits or breach height restrictions, which is why professional architectural drawings are essential before any work begins.

Sometimes. While minor internal works may fall under Licencia de Obra Menor, many Costa del Sol municipalities still require:

• Basic floor plans
• Confirmation that no structural elements are affected
• Proof that the works do not alter approved layouts

If load-bearing walls, staircases, or basements are involved, drawings are almost always required.

Yes. In fact, remote preparation is now the preferred option for many expats.

MyHomePlans specialises in fully online architectural drawing services, allowing you to:

• Manage your project from the UK or abroad
• Communicate in clear English
• Review drawings digitally
• Avoid unnecessary travel to Spain

All drawings are prepared to a professional standard and can be coordinated with local architects or técnicos as required.

Yes — provided they are prepared correctly and coordinated properly.

Spanish authorities are concerned with:

• Accuracy
• Regulatory compliance
• Technical clarity

They are not concerned with where the drawings are physically produced. MyHomePlans regularly prepares drawings that are accepted by Costa del Sol municipalities when submitted by a local registered professional.

Yes. This is extremely common.

MyHomePlans regularly:

• Coordinates drawings with local architects
• Issues revisions based on municipal feedback
• Clarifies design intent for builders

This collaborative approach reduces delays and misunderstandings.

This is a common issue on the Costa del Sol.

In many cases, it is possible to:

• Prepare as-built drawings
• Apply for legalisation or regularisation

However, this must be handled carefully. Accurate drawings are essential to assess whether the works can be approved retrospectively.

Timescales vary by municipality, but typical ranges are:

• Minor works: 2–6 weeks
• Major works: 1–3 months (sometimes longer)

Incomplete or inaccurate drawings are one of the main causes of delay.

Costs vary depending on project scope, but MyHomePlans offers:

• Fixed-fee pricing
• Clear deliverables
• No percentage-based fees

This gives expats cost certainty from the outset.

Expats choose MyHomePlans because:

• The service is fully online
• Communication is in clear English
• Pricing is transparent
• Drawings are expat-focused
• Coordination with local professionals is seamless