In Portugal, long-term tenants benefit from various legal protections aimed at ensuring their housing stability and protecting their rights. These protections are especially relevant for tenants who have been residing for many years in the same property or who belong to groups considered vulnerable. Here are some of the main legal protections for long-term tenants:
Legal Protections for Long-Term Tenants
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Right of Preference:
Tenants who have been residing for more than two years in a property have the right of preference in purchasing it, if the owner decides to sell it. This right obliges the landlord to offer the tenant the possibility of acquiring the property under the same conditions offered to third parties.
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Protection Against Eviction:
The New Urban Lease Regime (NRAU) offers enhanced protection against evictions for tenants over 65 years of age or with a disability with a degree of incapacity greater than 60%, especially if the contracts are prior to 1990. These tenants cannot be evicted, except in specific situations, such as the need for demolition or deep rehabilitation works.
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Permanent Right of Habitation (DRHD):
This right allows tenants to reside permanently in a dwelling, paying an initial deposit and a monthly payment. Contract termination is only possible if both parties agree.
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Stability in Leasing:
Portuguese legislation establishes minimum terms for lease contracts, generally one year, with automatic renewal every three years, unless both parties agree to different terms. This provides greater stability to tenants.
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Protection in Vulnerability Situations:
Tenants facing situations of involuntary unemployment, permanent incapacity, or death have the right to terminate the contract without paying rents corresponding to the notice period.
These protections aim to ensure that long-term tenants can maintain their residence in a stable and secure manner, even in the face of changes in ownership or other circumstances that may affect their housing.