Hello all,

Does anyone know if there is any way around having to use a Portuguese registered builder to do work to get a change of use certificate? Or has anyone managed to get registered in Portugal as a builder?

The property in question is currently a garage/armazan and we are working to get it approved as a residence. The work itself is very straightforward (essentially an internal fit out) but it seems that we have to pay hand over fist to have a local do the building work, which we are more than capable of doing.

Any help or comments are greatly received.

Thanks, Jules

The small crew who worked for us when we renovated our house, used to get cover from a registered builder when needed; so that legally he was the contractor and they subcontractors.
I think they had to pay 2% for that.

Maybe that's something you could do.

I had the impression that becoming a registered builder is about as easy as being elected God.

You will need at least a certificado do empreteiro.

See pages 8 & 9 here:

https://www.impic.pt/impic/assets/mi...ante_IMPIC.pdf

Thanks Liveaboard, appreciate the reply. How long ago was this - I don't suppose the registered builder was based in Porto was he (wishful thinking . . .)?

Many thanks, I'll take a look.

Long ago and far away I'm afraid.