1. WIll the flat have a 'lease' as in the UK - like some have 99 year or 999 year leases in the UK.
Generally, no. Unless it is in a block of flats then usually freehold. By block I mean one of those semi high rise ones with 20 or 30 flats.
2. It will not be in a complex with a pool - so what would the average yearly or monthly maintence charge be?
Again, generally nothing unless in a big block of flats which will have a yearly fee depending on lifts, amenities, cleaning etc. No idea of the costs.
3. If it is all electric is there a standing charge for the year or do you pay just for what you use.
Standing charge and taxes have to be paid. Depends on the power you are contracted for but a 5.75kw contract (now the standard) about €56 every 2 months before you even plug anything in. Electricity is the biggest cost here with average bills around 80 to 110 euro a month. For a small flat about 80 when you are here depending on if you have aircon/heating.
4. Are the electric meters usually inside or outside of the flat?
Outside
5. same as question 3 with water & drainage.
Water standing charges include rubbish collection and sewerage. Generally around €50 a quarter but your bills will not rise significantly when you actually use water.
6. Same as question 4 for the water.
Outside
7. What other charges (in Euros or £) will I be expected to pay per year. Does it matter I will only be there
for 3 months? I will not be letting but allowing the odd week free for family. I mean rubbish collection etc-
can I tell the local council when I won't be there to reduce costs?
IBI (council tax) depending on the area. 2 bed flat in Valencia region around 90 to 120 euro a year and no, you have to pay for the whole year with no rebate.
8. Can I get mobile internet on PAYG? Is this the cheapest way for the internet? I have Three mobile unlimited
on UK contract. There was a recent announcement that roaming charges will be abolished Euro wide so will this
affect Euro mobile internet (I get 4G via tethering)
Yes, you can get a dongle. There are also companies which provide internet/phone etc that you switch off when you are not there.
9. Do all flats have multiflat dish connections & is it possible just to hook up a UK sky box with a single LNB connector?
Not all. Some do. They have Spanish TV provided but not satellite dishes. You could have one fitted if you have the room and any Sky box or UK freesat box will work. Again, some companies provide TV you can switch off if not there.
10. The money is from my Dad's death. I am currently not working. Will I need to fill out a tax return in Spain? If so
will they accept that I have no income?
No, not as a non-resident. You will have to pay "imputed" income tax which again depends on the region. In Valencia around 80 euro a year per person on the deeds. You will also have to pay bank charges as a non-resident which could be anything from 10 to 40 euro a quarter depending on the bank.
11. I have heard they assume you rent out even if you do not. What will this be on a £25000 flat? It is not a new build
just an old backstreet flat.
That is your imputed income tax as above. You may find it easier to use a solicitor to set up all your bills and do your tax return but be warned, that will come to more than the council tax at around 135 euro a year.
HTH