Malta Residential Eviction Process

Eviction in Malta is a strictly judicial process. The eviction process is primarily governed by the Private Residential Leases Act (Cap. 604), which came into force on 1 January 2020. Landlords are prohibited from taking the law into their own hands.

Adjudicating Panel for Private Residential Leases Jurisdiction

Under Section 23 of the Private Residential Leases Act (Cap. 604), the Adjudicating Panel for Private Residential Leases is the body with the authority to hear complaints and order a tenant to vacate a property for private residential leases. Any "self-help" measures, such as changing locks, cutting off utilities, or removing tenant belongings, are illegal and can lead to criminal charges and civil damages.

Termination for Non-Renewal

For a long-term residential lease under Section 14 of Cap. 604, if the landlord does not wish to renew the lease at the end of its term, they must:

1. Send a registered letter to the tenant.
2. Ensure the letter is sent at least 3 months prior to the expiry date. If this notice is not given, the lease automatically renews for another year.

Termination for Breach (Eviction)

Under Section 20 of Cap. 604, a landlord can file for eviction before the Adjudicating Panel for Private Residential Leases if the tenant:

• Is in arrears for at least two (2) months.
• Has breached a fundamental condition of the lease.
• Is using the property for purposes other than residential.

Under Section 20(2) of Cap. 604, the landlord must first send a registered letter giving the tenant 15 days to remedy the breach (specifically for non-payment) before filing with the Adjudicating Panel for Private Residential Leases.

How Landager Helps

Landager's automated alerts remind you of the 3-month non-renewal window, ensuring you never miss a deadline for ending a lease legally.