In a homeowners’ association where most owners are foreign nationals and the property manager is also foreign, the question may arise whether the meeting can be held exclusively in English.
A judgment of the Spanish Supreme Court (STS, 15 November 2002) establishes that it is valid to hold the meeting in English instead of Spanish. However, it must be ensured that attendees have access to information in Spanish if they require it. In the case examined, the property manager acted as interpreter and the resolutions were recorded in meeting minutes drafted in Spanish.
If the homeowners’ association agrees to hold meetings in a language other than Spanish, those who do not understand that language are entitled to simultaneous translation. The Supreme Court holds that the use of another language is legitimate, provided that owners who do not understand it may request a translation.
Therefore, although it is not mandatory for the meeting to be conducted entirely in Spanish, it is advisable to provide key information in Spanish and to ensure that the minutes are translated into Spanish.
