Documents for Tenants: BNA Request Portugal
If you are preparing a request at the Tenant and Landlord Desk (BNA), it is essential to gather the correct documents to prove your situation as a tenant and protect your rights. This guide explains, in clear language, which proofs of residence, contracts, rent receipts, communications exchanged with the landlord and evidence of breaches or lack of maintenance the BNA accepts. We also describe deadlines, how to organize evidence and when to seek legal or public service support. It is aimed at tenants in Portugal who need practical instructions to submit a solid request and avoid common mistakes during the process.
Documents and necessary evidence
Before submitting the request, assemble copies of the main documents that prove the tenancy relationship and the problems motivating the request.
- Tenancy contract or title proving the link.
- Rent receipts and payment proofs (rent).
- Communications with the landlord: notices, emails and letters (notice).
- Photographs and videos of the property condition, with dates (evidence).
- Quotes or technical reports about lack of maintenance (repair).
- Witness contacts and records of contact attempts (contact).
How to submit the request
You can make the request through the BNA form or by presenting documents at the desk indicated by the Justice services. Clearly state the objective of the request, the facts, the evidence and the specific remedy sought (for example, maintenance, suspension of eviction or request for interim measures). Consult the NRAU (Law no. 6/2006)[1] and the official templates on Citius/BNA[2] before submitting.
Documents to attach
- Copy of the contract and identification of the parties.
- Receipts of recent rent payments.
- Copies of communications sent to the landlord.
- Dated photographs and technical reports, if any.
Deadlines and what to expect
Deadlines may vary depending on the type of request and urgency. Follow the deadlines indicated on the form and respond promptly to requests for additional information.
- Time for landlord response: 30 days (days) unless otherwise indicated.
- BNA internal deadlines: they vary according to case complexity (calendar).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What documents are mandatory for a BNA request?
- Contract, identification, rent receipts, communications with the landlord and photographic proofs or technical reports.
- Can I request urgent measures to avoid eviction?
- Yes, you can request interim measures or urgent relief from the BNA if there is an immediate risk of losing your home.
- Do I need a lawyer to submit the request?
- Not always; the BNA accepts requests from the tenant, but legal support can be helpful in complex cases.
How-To
- Gather and organize all relevant documents and evidence.
- Fill out the BNA form clearly and attach supporting documents.
- Submit the request and keep proof of submission or protocol.
- Monitor deadlines and respond to additional information requests.
