João Fitas comments to CNN Portugal on tenant protection under older lease agreements

João Fitas, Managing Associate at Morais Leitão, commented to CNN Portugal on the rules applicable to older lease agreements in Portugal, in connection with the case of Maricarmen, an 87-year-old tenant whose eviction in Spain prompted protests and reignited debate over the protection afforded to older tenants.

In the article, João Fitas explains that, for agreements entered into before the Urban Lease Regime came into force, Portuguese law provides for specific protection mechanisms. «People over the age of 65 are protected under older lease agreements; they are protected by law because there is no such transition.»

Our lawyer also addresses situations where a landlord intends to carry out major works on the property, as well as the rules governing the duration of lease agreements, rent increases and contractual breaches. Regarding the duration of contracts, he explains: «The rent itself may not be frozen, but the fact that the agreement is of indefinite duration does not change.» In cases of breach, he notes that «Eviction can only take place after someone unlawfully remains in the property.»

Read the full commentary here.