In a homeowners’ association where the majority of owners are foreigners and the administrator is also a foreigner, the possibility of holding the meeting entirely in English may be considered.
A ruling by the Spanish Supreme Court (STS) on November 15, 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 the information in Spanish if they request it. In the case analyzed, the administrator acted as a translator, and the resolutions were drafted in minutes in Spanish.
If the homeowners’ association agrees to hold meetings in a language other than Spanish, those who do not understand that language have the right to simultaneous translation. The Supreme Court holds that the use of another language is legitimate, provided that owners who do not understand it can request a translation.
Therefore, although it is not mandatory for the meeting to be conducted entirely in Spanish, it is recommended that the key points be communicated in Spanish and that the translation of the meeting minutes be mandatory.
