Tenancy Disputes in Portugal

This service is for people from abroad who rent a home in the country, as landlord or as tenant, and have a disagreement. Common problems include the rental contract, making a rental longer, the state of the home and repairs, what each side must do and getting a deposit back.

The aim is to help both sides understand their rights, make sure the agreement is kept and settle the disagreement.

Is a written contract needed?

Not always. Even without a written contract, the law may still treat the arrangement as a lease (a rental agreement) if one person rents from the other and rent is being paid and accepted. So there are no special conditions for using this service.

How it works

The lawyer first reads the rental agreement. It should say who the landlord and tenant are, which home is rented, for how long and for what rent. The lawyer then explains what each side must do, for example paying rent and bills, looking after the home and following the building's shared rules.

If there is a dispute, it can be settled through mediation (a neutral person helps both sides agree) or, if needed, through the courts.

What the service includes

• Reading and explaining the rental agreement
• Explaining the rights and duties of landlords and tenants under local law
• Help settling the dispute
• Talks with the other side to reach the best and cheapest solution
• Court action as a last step, if nothing else works