Building on Isla Mujeres compared with building in the States

In the United States Building is regulated, building codes are written into law, setting minimum requirements for how the property is constructed, including plumbing, heating, and air conditioning. In Isla Mujeres there are some fairly lax building laws but they are regularly flouted. Even when it comes to the size and height of the construction; it is not uncommon for an extra floor is added to an apartment building. The constructor opting to pay the fines levied and reap the benefit of having additional apartments to sell.

For those thinking of building on Isla Mujeres, this lack of control, works very much against their interest.

Once the plans have been approved by the Municipio, there is no real involvement on the local governments part until, what is know as Termimación de Obra (completion of the building project). Then the local government sends and inspector to measure the property and check that is occupying the correct amount of land. What you don't have is inspectors regularly checking on the construction, or an Architect visiting the project at various stages to make sure the building process complies with the plans and specifications.

This lack of control in Isla Mujeres results in some considerable abuses; there are ethical builders on the island, but sadly there are an even greater number of unethical builders. Beware in particular of a partnership; one who claims to be a Real Estate agent but has no properties for sale, and a builder who is responsible for a string of broken dream homes. Neither is Mexican, so they have never been sued, simply because lawyers have always advised after much expense that when it comes to the day in court, they will both leave Isla Mujeres and Mexico and return to their own countries.

In the light of the lack of controls and the potential for abuse, on of the safeguards when considering the services of a builder is to see at least three of the builder's past projects and speak to three of the property owners for whom they have built. There are builders such as the aforementioned who cannot do this. There are two key questions to ask; did they keep their word during the building process, and were they willing to return when there were issues. If they had no issues, then great, although it would be unusual. We have an article on our website, How To Stop Isla Mujeres Builders Driving You Mad, There are some useful tips there for anyone considering on building an Isla Mujeres property.