Tenant Rights in Malta

Malta has made significant improvements to tenant protections in recent years, particularly with updates to the Private Residential Leases Act in 2020. These changes introduced mandatory registration of rental agreements, clearer eviction procedures, and better enforcement mechanisms. Whether you're an expat, student, or local renter, understanding these rights helps you navigate your tenancy confidently.

While Malta's rental regulations may not be as comprehensive as some other European countries, tenants do have meaningful protections. The Housing Authority serves as the primary regulatory body, handling complaints and maintaining the rental registry. This guide covers your essential rights, landlord obligations, and what to do if problems arise.

Rental Agreement Requirements

Under Malta's current law, rental agreements for periods longer than six months must be in writing and registered with the Housing Authority. This registration provides several benefits: it creates a legal record of the tenancy, ensures basic terms are documented, and gives you access to formal dispute resolution mechanisms.

A valid rental agreement should include: the names of both parties, the property address, rental amount and payment terms, deposit amount and conditions for return, duration of the tenancy, notice periods for termination, and any house rules. If your landlord refuses to provide a written agreement or register the tenancy, this is a violation of the law—though unfortunately enforcement can be challenging.

For shorter stays under six months, written agreements are not legally required but are strongly recommended. Even informal room rentals benefit from having terms documented in writing. At minimum, get confirmation via email or text of the agreed rent, deposit, and duration.

Eviction: What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

One of the most important protections for tenants is the formal eviction process. In Malta, landlords cannot simply force you out of a property. They must follow legal procedures, and only a court order can authorize a physical eviction. Understanding this process protects you from illegal eviction attempts.

What landlords CAN do: Give written notice to end the tenancy according to contract terms, apply to the Rent Regulation Board for an eviction order if you breach the lease, and pursue legal action through the courts for unpaid rent or damages.

What landlords CANNOT do: Change locks while you're still living there, remove your belongings, cut off utilities, physically force you out, harass or intimidate you into leaving, or enter the property without notice (except emergencies).

If a landlord attempts any illegal eviction tactics, document everything and contact the Housing Authority immediately. You may also want to seek legal advice, as you could have grounds for compensation.