Private Residential Leases In Malta

Malta's laws on private residential leases have been updated, with the changes coming into force on 1st September 2024. The amendments seek to clarify various legal provisions, promote transparency, and ensure a fair process for both landlords and tenants when registering lease agreements with the Housing Authority.

Key Obligations For Lessors

The time frame for registering rental agreements has been extended from 10 to 30 days and the process must be completed online. A shift in terminology from "duty" to "obligation." makes clear the obligation for lessors to register private residential leases (ie rental contracts).

Lessors are required to specify the number of residents that will live in the premises, while the Minister has the authority to establish regulations on minimum habitability standards and set limits on the number of occupants allowed at any one time. Importantly, even if the Housing Authority authorizes a rental agreement, it does not serve as a