What Is a CPCV and Why Should You Inspect Before Signing?
If you’re buying in Portugal, you’ll hear the term CPCV pretty quickly. It stands for Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda — the promissory contract.
In most cases, once you sign the CPCV, you’re committing to the purchase with a deposit on the line. Some contracts include an inspection clause, which gives you a little flexibility if something significant comes up — but not all of them do. That’s why many buyers prefer to schedule the inspection before CPCV, when they still have full freedom to negotiate or walk away.
Why Inspections Help at the CPCV Stage
A CPCV is more than a formality — it’s the point where buyer and seller both make a serious commitment. Having an inspection beforehand gives you extra peace of mind:
Clarity: You know the condition of the property before money changes hands.
Confidence: Buyers feel better about moving forward, and sellers benefit from smoother transactions.
Negotiation: If repairs are needed, you can discuss them before the deal is final.
Beyond CPCV: Other Times to Inspect
While pre-CPCV inspections are preferred, they’re not the only time an inspection can help:
After CPCV: Sometimes buyers include an inspection clause, or just want a deeper understanding as they prepare for ownership.
For Sellers: A pre-listing inspection can identify issues before putting a home on the market, avoiding last-minute surprises.
For Renters: Long-term tenants often want to understand the condition of a property before signing a lease.
My Approach
An inspection isn’t about scaring people away from a property — it’s about giving you the facts so you can make informed decisions. Sometimes that’s as simple as planning for a water heater replacement; other times it’s noting maintenance for the future. Either way, the goal is always the same: helping you move forward with confidence.
👉 Want to see how this looks in practice? Check out our Sample Reports from Across Portugal.