Tenant complaints and dispute resolution in Portugal
If you are a tenant in Portugal and face issues such as key handover, incorrect meter readings or lack of maintenance, knowing how to report and resolve the situation protects your rights. This guide explains, in clear language, which documents to gather, which deadlines to respect and when to use official channels or go to court. It includes practical steps to collect evidence, notify the landlord, file formal complaints and, if necessary, submit requests through the National Tenant and Landlord Counter or the court. If you follow the indicated steps you may speed up resolution and avoid losing rights by missing procedural or formal deadlines. We provide guidance on documents and complaint templates.
What you can report
- Improper delivery or withholding of keys.
- Incorrect meter readings or missing registration.
- Lack of necessary repairs affecting habitability.
- Entry into the home without notice or consent.
- Code violations or safety condition breaches.
- Unauthorized charges or deductions.
General rules on leasing and tenant rights are in the NRAU and the Civil Code; knowing them helps to support your complaint.[1]
How to prepare the complaint
Gather clear evidence before proceeding: contract, receipts, photos, meter reading records and message exchanges. Record dates, times and signatures when possible. A complaint with organized documentation is more effective and facilitates formal requests or legal actions.
- Lease contract and amendments.
- Rent receipts and proof of payment.
- Photos or videos of defects or damages.
- Meter reading records with date and time.
- Written communications exchanged with the landlord (email, letter).
Practical steps before proceeding
- First contact the landlord in writing and request a solution within a reasonable deadline.
- If there is no response, send a formal complaint with copies of documents.
- If necessary, submit a request to the National Tenant and Landlord Counter or use official templates available on CITIUS.[2]
- As a last resort, consider taking the case to court, preferably with legal guidance when possible.
Deadlines and notifications
Deadlines vary depending on the type of request: for urgent repairs, access to readings or key return there are practical timeframes that must be respected. When you receive a formal notice, count business days to respond and keep copies of communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I hand over keys and terminate the contract without the landlord's agreement?
- It depends on the contract clauses and circumstances; document the situation and seek advice before handing over the keys.
- How to prove incorrect meter readings?
- Record readings with date and time, photograph the meters and compare with previous receipts or bills.
- Where can I find official complaint forms?
- Forms and procedures are available on the CITIUS portal and at the competent national counters.[2]
How to (step by step)
- Gather documentation: contract, receipts, photos and meter reading records.
- Send a written notice to the landlord with a concrete remedy request and deadline.
- If there is no response, file a complaint with the National Tenant and Landlord Counter or use the CITIUS forms.[2]
- If the breach continues, prepare a court action with all organized documentation.
Key takeaways
- Always document dates, readings and written communications.
- Know your rights under the NRAU and the Civil Code.
- Use official channels (Counter/CITIUS) before going to court.
