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Rental Deposit Dispute
Getting your deposit back from a landlord
✓ Reviewed: April 2026
Under Maltese law, your landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of the tenancy ending. If they… Step-by-step Malta legal guide on Laws of Malta.
- Document the property condition at move-out
Before returning the keys, photograph and video every room thoroughly. Compare these to your move-in photos and the signed inventory. This is your main evidence. If possible, do the check-out inspection together with the landlord and get written confirmation of the condition.
- Return the keys formally and request written confirmation
Return the keys in person and ask for written confirmation of the date of handover. If the landlord is unresponsive, send a registered letter (ittra rreġistrata) confirming the date you returned the keys. Keep the receipt.
- Send a formal written demand for your deposit
Under the law, the landlord must return your deposit within 30 days. Once that deadline passes without return, send a formal written demand by registered post or email with read receipt. Reference Article 9 of Chapter 604. State the amount, your bank details and a 7-day deadline to pay. Keep a copy.
- If they deduct — demand an itemised written breakdown
Your landlord must provide a written itemised breakdown of any deductions with receipts or quotes. Deductions are only valid for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Faded paint, minor marks and normal use do not justify deductions.
- File a complaint with the Housing Authority
If the landlord refuses to return the deposit or makes unjustified deductions, file a complaint with the Housing Authority at housingauthority.gov.mt or call 2299 1000. For leases registered under Cap. 604 (private residential leases from 1 January 2020 onwards) the dispute goes through the Housing Authority's Adjudicating Panel, not the Rent Regulation Board. The RRB handles older controlled leases under different legislation — confirm which regime your lease falls under.
- Use the Small Claims Tribunal for amounts up to €5,000
For deposit amounts up to €5,000, the Small Claims Tribunal is ideal — it costs €25 to file, no lawyers needed, and cases are resolved in 1–3 months. File at the Malta Courts building, Republic Street, Valletta. Bring all your evidence.
- Civil Court for larger amounts
If your deposit or claim exceeds €5,000, you will need to file in the Civil Court (Magistrates Court for up to €15,000). An advocate or legal procurator is strongly recommended for court proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a landlord have to return my deposit in Malta?
Under the Private Residential Leases Act (Chapter 604, Article 9), a landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of the tenancy ending.
What is the maximum deposit a landlord can charge in Malta?
The maximum is one month's rent. Any deposit higher than one month's rent is illegal under Chapter 604.
What can my landlord legally deduct from my deposit?
A landlord can only deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear or for unpaid rent. Deductions for faded paint, minor marks or normal use are not valid. The landlord must provide a written itemised breakdown with receipts for any deductions.