Tenant Small Repairs in Portugal
As a tenant in Portugal, knowing when and how to carry out small repairs inside the home protects your safety and avoids disputes with the landlord. This guide explains, in plain language, which repairs are usually the tenant's responsibility, what evidence to collect, how to request authorization from the landlord and timelines to follow. It includes practical steps to document issues, communicate in writing, keep receipts and complain if necessary. I also cover quick fixes, when to call a technician and how to act if the landlord does not respond. The goal is to give confidence to resolve minor faults legally and safely while preserving the rights and duties of both parties.
What are small repairs?
Small repairs are minor interventions aimed at maintaining the usual function of the property, such as changing light bulbs, seals or fixing small accessories. In many cases these interventions do not alter the building structure nor involve complex works and can be framed by Law no. 6/2006 (NRAU).[1]
Tenant responsibilities
- Replace light bulbs, simple repairs to taps and small daily-use adjustments.
- Request written authorization from the landlord before interventions that may alter structure or finishes.
- Keep photos, messages and receipts as evidence of the situation and expenses.
- Notify the landlord within reasonable deadlines and allow inspection appointments when requested.
How to notify the landlord
Communicating clearly and with documentation reduces misunderstandings. Describe the problem, attach photos, state when it started and what impact it has on habitability. If the landlord does not respond, you can turn to the Tenant and Landlord Desk for conciliation procedures or to submit formal requests.[2]
- Draft a written message (email or letter) with description, date and photos.
- Keep proof: photos, exchanged messages and expense receipts.
- Allow a reasonable response time (e.g., 7 to 14 days) and state it in the communication.
- If no response, try a phone contact and record the attempt.
- If necessary, use official channels for complaint or conciliation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the tenant authorize works without informing the landlord?
- No. Works that alter the structure, electrical installation or the appearance of the property require the landlord's written authorization.
- What types of repairs are usually the tenant's responsibility?
- Minor daily-use fixes, such as replacing light bulbs, seals, or adjusting fittings, unless the contract states otherwise.
- If the landlord does not respond to a repair request, what should I do?
- Document contacts and, if necessary, use the Tenant and Landlord Desk or other legal resolution methods provided by law.
How-To
- Document the issue with photos and notes about the situation.
- Send a written request to the landlord with description and requested deadline for action.
- Wait the reasonable deadline you set and record any response or lack thereof.
- If authorized, carry out the repair and keep receipts; request reimbursement if agreed.
- If in dispute, consult official services for conciliation or legal action.
Key Takeaways
- Always collect visual evidence and documents before acting.
- Communicating in writing protects both tenant and landlord rights.
- Use official channels if the landlord does not respond.
