Common Tenant Mistakes for Students in Portugal
Finding a room or house as a student in Portugal can be challenging and full of pitfalls for any tenant. Many students and renters make avoidable mistakes — accepting contracts without reading, not requesting rent receipts, or failing to check habitability conditions. This article explains, in plain language, the rights and duties of tenants in rental processes, how to recognize abusive clauses, organize documents and act in cases of maintenance issues or eviction. We provide practical steps, common examples and official Portuguese resources to help make informed decisions, protect the deposit and reduce risks throughout the tenancy. If you are about to sign a contract, read the clauses on duration, rent and responsibilities, and request clarifications in writing.
Before Signing
Before signing, check key points to protect yourself as a tenant: contract term, rent amount, security deposit and repair responsibilities.
- Accepting a contract without reading all clauses, such as duration and penalties.
- Not verifying the amount and conditions of the deposit and the rent (deposit/rent).
- Not requesting receipts or copies of documents and communications.
- Not confirming rules about entry, keys and privacy.
Always keep digital copies of contracts and receipts.
During the Tenancy
While a tenant, keeping records and meeting obligations helps avoid conflicts. Know how to act in common maintenance and payment situations.
- Report maintenance issues promptly and document requests.
- Pay rent according to the contract and insist on a receipt.
- Do not accept clauses that unduly limit the tenant's rights.
Respond to official notices within the indicated deadlines.
If There Is a Dispute or Eviction
If a serious dispute arises, consult the applicable legislation and seek guidance; the NRAU and the Civil Code set relevant deadlines and rights for tenants and landlords.[1]
Before any judicial action, try to resolve the matter in writing; if there is no agreement, there is a procedure via the Tenant Desk (BAS/BNA) and official forms through the Citius portal.[2]
Document all communications in writing with dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a written contract?
- Yes. A written contract clarifies rights, duties, duration and security deposit conditions.
- How much can the deposit be?
- The deposit amount varies; check the contract and demand a receipt for the deposit.
- What do I do if the landlord does not carry out repairs?
- Document the issue, notify in writing, and if there is no response, appeal to BAS/BNA or judicial means.
How-To
- Gather the contract, receipts and photos of the issues.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request a deadline for resolution.
- If necessary, submit a complaint to the Tenant Desk (BAS/BNA) via Citius.[2]
- Seek legal support if there is a risk of eviction and prepare a defense with documents.
Keeping evidence increases the effectiveness of formal complaints.
Key Takeaways
- Always read the contract before signing.
- Keep receipts and proof of payments.
- Report and document maintenance issues.
