Malta - British Expat Forum

Does anyone know if it is usual to pay a deposit (equivalent to one month's rent), to be kept by the landlord until the termination of the tenancy, in case of unpaid bills or breakages etc.?

I don't feel happy about this as it is an unfurnished property, and what if the landlord doesn't have the money or is unwilling to refund (taking for granted that there is no legitimate reason for withholding)

Thank you in advance for any help anyone can give on this subject.


Red

Yes, very normal - 1 month is typical and I've heard of 3 months - there could easily be an outstanding utility bill exceeding 1 months rent, plus it gives the landlord some protection in case someone does a runner.

Red: Just because the property is unfurnished doesn't mean that the fixtures and fittings are excluded from damage or that the tenant leaves the property in a disgusting state. It's only a months rent and if necessary you could withhold the final rental payment when you plan to move out. I think it's perfectly reasonable and fair. c.

Thank you Mark and Chris,

I do understand, but I'm just afraid that my parents don't know who they are dealing with from Adam, and what if the landlord just makes an excuse not to repay? - That is what worries me on their behalf.

Thats one reason its worth going through an estate agent - in reality, as I mentioned, you will probably owe the landlord more in utility bills than the deposit anyway

They are going through agents, and as far as I know, the utility bills are going to be in my parents names and paid by them by agreement.

Red

We rented unfurnished (through an agent) and paid the 1 month deposit, so it is quite normal. As said above, and provided there are no outstanding bills, the final month of occupancy could be covered by this amount.

It saves the landlord having to repay the deposit and also lets your parents put that 'final month' towards the new property cost/deposit.

Thank you Pumabob,

I am so glad I asked, it does put our minds at rest. The apartment we have at the moment did not require a deposit, so it seemed a little unusual (we thought).

I must just say thank you to all on the British Expat forum, I can truly say it's just like having a group of true friends who one can trust to guide from experience; and if one person doesn't get it just right, then someone in the know will always interject to get it as right as possible.

Red

Thanks, Red. It's always great to be appreciated.