Malta — Property: Rental Market

Key facts

• The lease must state the deposit amount but the Housing Authority does not require one; if none is asked it is stated as 0, and the deposit is up to the lessor.
• Leases must be registered online; if the landlord fails to register, the tenant can register the contract. Sources give the deadline as ten days (Identita) or thirty days (Housing Authority catalogue), so confirm.
• Since 1 September 2024 Identita does not accept private lease agreements unless legalised through a notary, lawyer or legal procurator.
• One-year leases renew automatically if the contract says so; six-month leases do not and must be re-registered.
• The Adjudicating Panel handles disputes for registered leases since 2020; older leases go to the Small Claims Tribunal or the Rent Regulation Board.

Steps

1. Finding a Rental Property — Renters can search online, through local agents, or directly with property owners. It's recommended to register with local agents to receive notifications about new listings.
2. Securing a Rental — Typically, a deposit and first month's rent are required upfront, with a formal rental agreement provided by the landlord or agent.