Report Defects: Tenant Guide in Portugal
If you are a tenant in Portugal and face defects in the property — leaks, damp, lack of heating, electrical problems or risks from gas and carbon monoxide — you have rights and practical steps to follow. This guidance explains, clearly and directly, how to notify the landlord, document the problems, request repairs and act in case of delay or refusal. We include immediate actions for safety risks, guidance on deadlines and the evidence to collect, and the administrative and judicial routes to consider. The goal is to help tenants protect their health, their lease and avoid unnecessary conflict, always with references to official procedures in Portugal.
Essential steps
After the initial notice, follow these practical steps to manage the situation and protect your rights.
- Inform the landlord in writing, describing the defect and requesting a deadline.
- Photograph and record dates, names and visits as evidence.
- Request a reasonable deadline for repair and note it in writing.
- Keep receipts for related expenses and proof of costs.
- In case of safety risk, demand immediate intervention and contact emergency services.
- If the landlord does not act, seek assistance from the Tenants and Landlords Desk and consider formal actions.
Rights and deadlines
In Portugal, rental law is governed by the NRAU and the Civil Code; maintenance and repair obligations generally fall to the landlord, unless agreed otherwise. Consult the applicable legislation for deadlines and procedures.[1] For administrative matters or intervention requests there is the Tenants and Landlords Desk, where you can get information and file formal requests.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of notice is considered valid?
- Written notice that describes the defect, the date and the repair request; prefer registered mail with return receipt or email with proof of delivery.
- Can I pay for the repair and deduct it from the rent?
- Only after a written agreement with the landlord or a court decision; keep all receipts and get written permission before deducting amounts.
- How long should I wait before going to court?
- Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to repair; if there is no response, use administrative means and then judicial action if necessary.
How to
- Assess whether there is an immediate safety risk and, if so, contact emergency services.
- Notify the landlord in writing with a description of the problem, the date and a request for a deadline.
- Document with photos, videos, communication logs and expense receipts.
- Request repairs and set reasonable deadlines in writing; track all contact attempts.
- If there is no solution, seek information from the Tenants and Landlords Desk and consider court action.
Key takeaways
- Documenting every step increases protection in future disputes.
- Always notify in writing and keep proof.
- Prioritize safety: gas and electrical risks require immediate action.
