When proceeding with the purchase of a home, the housing technical datasheet (ficha técnica de habitação) emerges as one of the most important documents to ensure transparency and security throughout the process. This document, often requested by banks during the mortgage application, gathers all essential technical characteristics of the property, helping the buyer make informed decisions.

The housing technical datasheet is mandatory for properties built or rehabilitated from March 2004 onwards. It acts as an “identity card” for the property, detailing aspects such as the year of construction, surface areas, materials used, installed equipment, and energy certification. For the buyer, having access to this document is crucial, as it allows them to understand the real condition of the property before closing the deal.

In addition, the housing technical datasheet serves as an important tool for banks, which use it to assess the property during the mortgage approval process. Although, since 2024, the law has eased the requirement to present the datasheet at the time of deed signing and loan application, many financial institutions still request it to ensure that the property meets legal and technical standards.

The importance of the housing technical datasheet goes beyond the loan application. This document helps confirm that the property complies with regulatory standards and that any construction work or alterations were properly legalized. This way, the buyer is protected against unpleasant surprises, such as structural defects or irregularities that could affect the property’s value.

In addition to the datasheet, the property’s floor plan is also essential. This technical document details the layout of rooms and areas within the property, including doors, windows, and structural elements, allowing for a full assessment of the space. Typically, the floor plan can be obtained from the municipal council or urban planning services, and is a key piece for analyzing the property.

The legislation regulating the housing technical datasheet is set out in Decree-Law no. 68/2004, which defines the conditions for properties built or rehabilitated after March 2004. Meanwhile, the floor plan is governed by the General Regulation of Urban Buildings (RGEU), which establishes the minimum habitability and safety requirements for constructions. These regulations ensure that the property meets the necessary criteria for safe and comfortable living.

When buying a home and applying for a mortgage, it is advisable to request both the housing technical datasheet and the property’s floor plan. Even when not mandatory, this information provides greater legal security and facilitates the process with banks. The absence of these documents can hinder the property assessment and, in some cases, lead to the loan being denied.

The housing technical datasheet contains detailed information about the property, including:

  • Year of construction or rehabilitation

  • Total and usable floor areas

  • Construction materials used

  • Installed equipment (heating, air conditioning, etc.)

  • Energy certification

  • Identification of the developer, designer, and builder

To obtain the housing technical datasheet, the property owner or developer must provide this document, especially for newly built properties. The floor plan, on the other hand, can be requested from the local municipal council, where approved construction or alteration projects are archived.

The housing technical datasheet is an essential tool for any buyer or financial institution. It ensures transparency in the purchasing process, helps comply with legal requirements, and protects against risks related to properties with technical or legal issues. It is strongly recommended that anyone interested in buying a home always verify the existence and validity of this document.