Renting a home in Portugal can be an exciting step — whether you’re relocating for work, exploring a new chapter of life, or staying long enough to experience the country’s charm beyond a quick holiday. Like anywhere else, understanding how the rental system works helps ensure a smooth start and protects you from unexpected surprises. This guide walks tenants, especially expats and newcomers, through everything they should know before signing a lease in Portugal.

Understanding Lease Types

Short-Term Rentals (Alojamento Local or “AL”)

Short-term rentals are typically furnished apartments or houses rented for periods under 12 months, often catering to digital nomads, remote workers, and temporary residents. Many AL properties include utilities, Wi-Fi, and maintenance, making them convenient for those still settling in.

Note: Cities like Lisbon and Porto have introduced stricter regulations for AL licenses, so always confirm that a property is officially licensed before booking.

Long-Term Rentals (Arrendamento de Longa Duração)

Leases of 12 months or longer fall into this category. These contracts often exclude utilities and may involve stricter terms around notice periods, renewal, and deposits. Long-term rentals are ideal for residents planning to stay in Portugal for several years.

Mid-Term Rentals (1–12 months)

This flexible option bridges both worlds—perfect for expats on temporary assignments or those testing different neighborhoods before committing to a purchase. It offers a balance of convenience and freedom, often with partial furnishings included.

What’s Typically Included

Rental properties in Portugal may come:

• Fully furnished: Move-in ready with furniture, appliances, and kitchenware.
• Partially furnished: Usually includes major appliances (fridge, stove, washing machine) but limited furniture.
• Unfurnished: Common for long-term rentals; tenants provide or purchase their own furniture.

Before signing, double-check what’s included — older buildings may not have heating or air conditioning, so it’s best to be prepared. Modern buildings may offer smart meters or integrated billing, making utility setup more convenient.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

Portugal’s tenancy laws are designed to protect both parties. Key points include:

• Security deposit: Typically one or two months’ rent, returned at the end of the lease minus damages or unpaid bills.
• Notice period: Tenants must usually give 90 days’ notice for long-term contracts, unless otherwise agreed.
• Rent updates: Landlords can only increase rent once a year and within limits set by the government.
• Maintenance: Landlords handle structural repairs, while tenants are responsible for minor upkeep (light bulbs, small fixtures, etc.).

If disputes arise, tenants can seek guidance from local authorities or arbitration centers, such as Balcão Nacional do Arrendamento, which now offer some services digitally.

Setting Up Utilities

If utilities aren’t included, tenants will need to register accounts for electricity (EDP or Galp), water, gas, and internet. Most require a NIF (tax number), proof of address, and the signed lease contract.

Tip: When possible, take photos of meter readings upon move-in to ensure accurate billing. Consider exploring neighborhoods on foot before committing—sometimes the best spots are hidden just around the corner.

How ORM Can Help

At MAREA by ORM, we curate a selection of quality homes suited for short- and long-term stays, each vetted for comfort, location, and transparency. Beyond finding the right property, ORM assists with lease reviews, NIF applications, utility setups, and local connections—ensuring a stress-free move from day one.

Each property we recommend undergoes a thorough vetting process, so clients can feel confident knowing they are moving into a home that meets our standards for comfort, convenience, and lifestyle.

Renting in Portugal opens the door to a fulfilling lifestyle — café mornings, seaside weekends, and a pace of life that invites you to slow down and savor it all. With the right guidance and a trusted partner, finding your home here can be as rewarding as living in it.