Many homeowners in Mexico believe that “because the house is mine, I can do whatever I want.”
Legally, this is completely false.
Some changes — even small ones — can trigger massive fines, civil lawsuits, municipal closures, and even criminal liability.
Here’s what nobody tells you… but every attorney knows.
Changing, moving, or tampering with your electric meter: the most common trap
It seems harmless, but any modification to the CFE meter without authorization can result in:
- administrative fines
- service suspension
- criminal accusations for unauthorized use of energy
- extremely high retroactive charges
Do you need permission from the owner or tenant?
Legally, only the contract holder or the property owner can authorize the inspection.
If CFE arrives without proper identification or work order, you may request:
- official ID
- work order number
- reason for the visit
Refusing access to an unauthorized visit does not generate penalties. It is your legal right.
Building a room, terrace, or extension without a permit
This is one of the most common mistakes in Mexico.
Even if “it’s your house”, the law requires a construction permit for:
- expansions
- enclosed areas
- terraces
- second floors
- tall perimeter walls
- structural changes
What happens if you don’t request a permit?
- immediate closure
- forced demolition
- fines exceeding $30,000 MXN
- civil liability if a neighbor is affected
- depreciation of your property
If you sell the house with illegal modifications, the buyer can sue you.
Changing the land use without authorization
If you convert your home into a:
- Airbnb
- office
- restaurant
- clinic
- coworking space
…without municipal permission, you may face sanctions.
The municipality can shut you down within 24 hours.
Installing cameras pointing at the street or neighbors
This may be considered:
- invasion of privacy
- harassment
- misuse of personal data
And yes — people have been sued for this.
What’s legal and what’s not?
Legal: cameras pointing only at your own property.
Illegal: cameras capturing neighbor windows, entrances, or private spaces.
Moving walls, columns or structural elements
Even if your trusted worker says “no pasa nada”, if the structure is affected:
- insurance won’t cover damages
- you may be held liable for collapse
- the municipality may order a technical inspection
In extreme cases, it is considered a crime for endangering others. AbogadoMex.mx