Opening a business in Andorra: what you should check on the premises before applying for a license

In Andorra, the start-up of an economic activity may require the intervention of both the Government and the corresponding Common, depending on the nature of the business and the applicable sectoral authorizations. They are two administrative levels that operate under independent filters; If they are not managed in a coordinated manner, they can paralyze your project before the inauguration.

It is not just about finding an available space, but also about confirming that the property has the parameters required for your specific activity.

Checklist: technical and regulatory feasibility criteria

Before formalizing any commercial premises rental or purchase contract, it is essential to audit the space under these critical points:

• Urban compatibility in the Common:One of the first recommended verifications is to confirm with the corresponding Commune the urban and functional compatibility of the planned activity. Not all locations are allowed any activity, especially in parishes with very defined urban plans.
• Accessibility regulations:The applicable regulations may require certain adaptations in terms of accessibility depending on the type of activity and the characteristics of the premises. Any unsaved access level or unadapted toilets may require a structural reform that must be budgeted for from the beginning.
• Smoke outlet and ventilation:If the business is hospitality, the existence of a technical smoke outlet is a fundamental asset. The installation may require authorizations from the community of owners and other competent bodies, in addition to meeting the applicable technical and administrative requirements, a process that must be analyzed by professionals.
• Electrical power (Bulletin):Make sure that the premises have an updated electrical installation bulletin and that the contracted power is sufficient for your machinery. Many establishments require an update to the installation to pass the technical inspection prior to registration.

Location criteria depending on the type of business

The location must respond to the logistics of your activity, not only to commercial visibility:

• Impulse buying businesses:They require intense pedestrian traffic on main avenues. The cost per square meter is high, but visibility is the main recruitment tool.
• Professional or technical services:For clinics, offices or logistics centers, the priority should be road access and easy parking. Looking for premises in secondary areas usually offers better square meters at a competitive price without sacrificing operability.
• Adaptation costs:In Andorra, adaptation budgets (soundproofing, air conditioning, fireproofing) must be realistic, since they depend on the type of installation and the availability of specialized suppliers. It is prudent to request an indicative budget before committing.

Limitations on façade and labeling

Commons regulations strictly dictate what type of signage and exterior modifications are permitted. Don't assume that you will be able to modify the facade to your liking; Consult the specific signage regulations of the parish where the property is located before designing your brand image.

The next step for your opening

The commercial real estate market in Andorra is agile and the best options are booked quickly. The next step is to filter the market before making any visits.

Sharing the type of activity, the necessary surface area and the budget, our real estate advisory team prepares ashortlistwith options previously analyzed from a technical and urban planning point of view. Cancontact our teamto begin the prior analysis and ensure that your choice facilitates, and does not hinder, obtaining the necessary authorizations.

Legal Notice: The urban, commercial and administrative regulations applicable to economic activities in Andorra may vary depending on the parish, the sector of activity and the legislative modifications that occur. The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute individualized legal advice. Before starting any economic activity, it is recommended to carry out a specific verification of the premises and the applicable administrative requirements.