Tenants: cost of finding a student room in Portugal
Finding a student room or house in Portugal can raise questions about who pays fees, commissions or initial expenses. This guide explains, in plain language, the responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord in student rentals, what to check in the contract and when it is lawful to pay a commission to an intermediary. We will cover deadlines, deposit, moving costs and common situations such as listings that require advance payment. If you need evidence, notices or to contact official bodies, you will find practical steps and useful contacts. The aim is to help tenants make informed decisions and protect their rights while searching for student housing.
Rights and who pays
In Portugal, rental law regulates basic responsibilities between tenants and landlords; Law no. 6/2006 (NRAU) is the main reference for residential leases[1]. In practice: ordinary structural maintenance expenses are generally the landlord's responsibility; routine use expenses and damage caused by the tenant are the tenant's responsibility. Always read the contract and confirm clauses on commissions and advance payments before signing.
Commissions and intermediaries
- Agency commission: usually paid by the tenant if it is explicitly stated in the listing or written agreement.
- Advance payment to third parties: never pay without a contract or proof receipt.
- Search fees: ask for itemised amounts and conditions before accepting.
Deposit and first months
- Security deposit: it is common practice to require a deposit; confirm the amount and return conditions in the contract.
- First months: confirm whether the first month s rent and the deposit are required before moving in and ask for receipts.
- Moving costs: transport and assembly costs are usually the tenant's responsibility, unless agreed otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays the agency commission?
- It depends on the initial agreement; if the listing or contract indicates the commission is borne by the tenant, they are responsible for payment.
- Can I refuse to pay without a contract?
- Yes. It is not advisable to pay commissions or amounts before having a signed contract and a receipt proving payment.
- Where can I file a complaint if there is abuse or improper payment?
- If you cannot resolve it with the landlord or intermediary, you can turn to the Tenant and Landlord Desk (BAS/BNA) or to the courts, depending on the case[2].
How To
- Gather documents: collect the contract, listings, messages and receipts as evidence.
- Check clauses and deadlines: read notice, payment and deposit conditions in the contract.
- Contact the landlord in writing: request receipts and document negotiations by email or message.
- If necessary, file a complaint: submit a complaint to the BAS/BNA or consider court action based on the evidence gathered.
Key Takeaways
- Always keep documents and evidence related to the search and the contract.
- Do not pay commissions without a written agreement and a receipt.
- Respect deadlines to respond to notices and file complaints.
