Energy & Heating for Tenants in Portugal
As a tenant in Portugal, dealing with energy, heating and hot water problems affects comfort and home safety. This text simply explains tenants' and landlords' rights and duties, describes when to request repairs, how to prove lack of heating or hot water, and which legal deadlines to follow. It includes practical steps to communicate problems in writing, use official forms and, if necessary, start proceedings in court or at the Tenants and Landlords Desk. With clear examples, guidance on collecting evidence and sample requests, it aims to help tenants resolve situations without confusion and with greater confidence in Portugal.
Rights and duties
The landlord is responsible for maintaining basic habitability conditions, including hot water and heating when provided in the contract or by local practice. Law no. 6/2006 (NRAU) sets rules on maintenance and contractual obligations.[1] If there is no heating in winter or a cut in hot water, the tenant should notify the landlord in writing and request repair within a reasonable time.
What to document before requesting repair
Gathering evidence makes any formal request easier. Record dates, times and daily impacts (temperature, inability to carry out hygiene, health risks).
- Photos and videos showing lack of hot water or radiator failure.
- Copies of messages sent to the landlord and receipts of technician visits.
- Record deadlines: when you contacted and how long passed without resolution.
- Reports or estimates from suppliers proving the need for intervention.
How to request repair (practical steps)
When requesting repair, always use written communication with details and evidence. State the problem, the effects and request intervention within a concrete deadline.
- Send an email or registered letter to the landlord with description and attachments.
- Keep an organized record of responses and technical visits.
- Set reasonable response and repair deadlines, for example 7 to 30 days depending on severity.
- If it is urgent (health risk), request immediate intervention and document the urgency.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the landlord obliged to ensure heating and hot water?
- Yes, when the contract provides or when such conditions are necessary for habitability; the landlord must carry out necessary repairs.
- How long should I wait for a repair?
- Deadlines vary with severity; problems that pose a health risk require immediate intervention, others may have deadlines from days to weeks depending on the case.
- What if the landlord does not respond?
- Formalize a written complaint, gather evidence and, if there is no response, go to the Tenants Desk or the competent judicial channels.
How To
- Record the problem with photos, videos and dates.
- Notify the landlord in writing, requesting repair and indicating a deadline.
- Await the reasonable deadline and document any response.
- If unresolved, submit the form or complaint at the Tenants Desk according to official procedures.[2]
- If necessary, initiate court proceedings with all collected documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords are responsible for maintaining basic habitability conditions.
- Written communications and documentary evidence are essential.
- Respect deadlines and respond to notices to preserve rights.
