Late Fees and Rent Arrears in Malta

Rules regarding late rent payments and applicable penalties.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Malta for advice specific to your situation. Information last verified: March 2026.

Managing late rent payments requires adherence to contract terms and civil law.

Penalties and Interest

A lease agreement may include a clause requiring interest on late payments. However, the interest rate cannot exceed the maximum legal rate set by Maltese law (typically 8% per annum for commercial/civil debts unless otherwise stated). Penalty clauses must be reasonable.

Eviction for Non-Payment

If a tenant falls into arrears, the landlord usually sends a formal judicial letter demanding payment. If payment is not received within a stipulated time (often 15 days), the landlord may apply to the Rent Regulation Board for termination and eviction.

Getting Started with Compliance

Managing compliance can be complex. Landager helps landlords track their compliance status, manage lease terms, and stay updated when regulations like the Private Residential Leases Act change.