Renting a Home in Portugal: A Step-by-Step Guide for Families and Expats
Thinking of relocating to Portugal with your family? From golden beaches to affordable healthcare and a slower pace of life, Portugal has become a top destination for expats — but finding the right rental home can be a confusing process if you’re unfamiliar with the market.
This practical guide will walk you through how to rent a house or apartment in Portugal, including budgeting tips, tenant rights, and how to avoid common pitfalls — so you can find a place that feels like home from day one.
1. Understanding the Portuguese Rental Market
Before you start house-hunting, it’s important to know how the rental landscape in Portugal works — and how it differs by region:
- Lisbon & Porto: The two largest cities have the highest demand and most expensive rental prices. Great for jobs and culture, but less space for your money.
- The Algarve: Popular with retirees and expats, with a mix of modern villas, beachside apartments, and some affordable family housing inland.
- Central & Northern Portugal: Offers a quieter lifestyle and significantly lower rent prices — ideal for remote workers or families seeking more space.
As of 2025, the average monthly rent in Portugal is around €15.50 per square metre, with central Lisbon pushing above €18/m².
2. Setting a Realistic Rental Budget
Before you start viewing homes, understand the full cost of renting in Portugal — not just the advertised monthly price:
- Rent: Varies widely by location, property type, and proximity to coast or city.
- Security Deposit: Typically one or two months’ rent. Some landlords may request three.
- Utility Bills: Electricity, gas, water, internet, and even garbage collection are usually paid separately.
- Agency Fees: These are often covered by the landlord but always check before signing.
- Upfront Payments: In competitive areas, landlords may ask for multiple months’ rent in advance, especially if you don’t have a Portuguese guarantor.
Tip: Don’t forget to factor in things like school commutes, car usage, and heating/cooling when setting your total housing budget.
3. Where and How to Find Rental Properties in Portugal
There are a few key ways to find long-term rentals in Portugal:
- Online Portals: Websites like Idealista.pt, Imovirtual.com, and Casa.sapo.pt are the most widely used.
- Facebook Groups: Try local groups like “Rentals in Algarve,” “Lisbon Housing for Expats,” or “Families Moving to Portugal.”
- Real Estate Agents (Imobiliárias): Local agents can be especially helpful if you’re looking in smaller towns or want help negotiating in Portuguese.
⚠️ Be cautious of scams — never send money without a signed contract and a verified property visit, especially if booking remotely.
4. Viewing and Evaluating Rental Properties
When viewing homes (in person or virtually), take your time and look beyond the basics:
🔎 Check for Damp and Mold
Dampness is common in older Portuguese buildings, particularly in coastal areas or homes built with poor ventilation. It’s not always obvious, so check behind furniture, inside built-in wardrobes, under rugs, and around window frames. Look for:
- Peeling or bubbling paint
- Dark spots on ceilings or walls
- A musty smell
Some landlords may shift furniture to hide problem areas — especially in winter. If anyone in your family has allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues, this check is essential.
Consider Light and Ventilation
Natural light and airflow are key to a comfortable living environment in Portugal’s hot summers and chilly winters. Homes can be surprisingly cold in winter due to poor insulation.
Check the Area for Schools and Services
Make sure you're close to schools, supermarkets, healthcare, and transport links. If you’re moving without a car, walkability is essential.
Ask What's Included
Don’t assume furniture or appliances are included. Always clarify:
- Is the property furnished, unfurnished, or “semi-furnished”?
- Does it have heating or air conditioning?
- Are kitchen appliances provided?
5. Understanding Portuguese Rental Contracts
Rental contracts in Portugal are usually called a “Contrato de Arrendamento.” Before signing, make sure you understand:
- Duration: Most contracts are for 12 months with automatic renewal, though shorter terms are possible.
- Notice Periods: Tenants usually need to give 60 days' notice to leave.
- Maintenance: The landlord is typically responsible for structural repairs, while tenants handle day-to-day upkeep.
- Registration: All contracts must be registered with the Portuguese tax authority (AT). If your landlord resists this, it's a red flag.
6. Documents You’ll Need to Rent a Property
Even if you’re renting privately, most landlords will ask for documentation. You’ll usually need:
- Valid ID or Passport
- NIF (Portuguese Tax Number) – Essential for contracts, utilities, and legal agreements.
- Proof of Income – Payslips, job contracts, or bank statements.
- Guarantor or Upfront Payment – Some landlords may ask for a Portuguese guarantor or extra months’ rent upfront if you're new to the country.
7. Tenant Rights in Portugal: Know Where You Stand
Portuguese law provides several key protections for tenants:
- Rent Increases: These are regulated annually by the government and can’t be raised arbitrarily.
- Eviction Protection: Landlords can’t evict tenants without cause or due process.
- Privacy: Landlords must give notice before entering the property.
📌 Always ask for a signed contract and receipts for payments. Informal agreements are risky — especially if you plan to apply for residency.
8. Pro Tips for a Smooth Renting Experience
- Photograph Everything: Take dated photos when you move in and out to protect your deposit.
- Keep It in Writing: Any agreement with your landlord — from minor repairs to contract changes — should be documented.
- Talk to Other Expats: Join local forums or expat groups. Word of mouth is a powerful way to spot great rentals (or avoid bad ones).
- Know Your Bills: Ask how utilities are paid and whether there are standing charges or communal fees (especially in apartments).
Final Thoughts: Renting in Portugal as a Family
Renting in Portugal may feel daunting at first — especially if you’re doing it from overseas — but thousands of families have done it successfully, and you can too. Take your time, do your homework, and don’t feel pressured to say yes to the first place you see.
The right home will not only tick the practical boxes, but also feel right.
Once you’re settled, you’ll find that life in Portugal — from the morning café rituals to the relaxed school runs and sunny weekends — really can live up to the dream.
Download our free moving to Portugal Guide