Malta Commercial Eviction Process

Evicting a commercial tenant in Malta requires strict adherence to the terms of the contract and the procedural rules of the Rent Regulation Board.

Contractual Termination

Since commercial leases are governed by the contract, the "trigger" for eviction is usually a breach of a specific clause. Common grounds include:

• Non-payment of rent for a specified period.
• Unauthorized change of use (e.g., from retail to storage).
• Unauthorized sub-letting.

The Role of the Rent Regulation Board (RRB)

Even with a clear contract breach, a landlord cannot simply evict a commercial tenant. An application must be filed with the Rent Regulation Board. The RRB will hear both sides before issuing an eviction order.

Notice Periods

Unlike residential leases, there is no statutory 3-month notice for non-renewal. The lease ends on the date specified in the contract. If the tenant stays beyond that date without a new agreement, they may be considered a "precarious" occupier, but a court order is still required to remove them.

Eviction Proceedings and Enforcement

Commercial evictions must strictly follow the judicial processes outlined in the Civil Code (Cap. 16). Landlords cannot engage in self-help evictions, such as changing the locks or cutting off utilities, even if the tenant is in severe arrears. Instead, the landlord must file a formal application before the Rent Regulation Board (RRB) to obtain an executive title and an official eviction order. Only court-appointed marshals have the authority to forcibly remove a commercial tenant.

How Landager Helps

Landager keeps a timestamped record of all communications and rent defaults, providing the essential evidence needed if you ever have to file a case with the RRB.