What Can a Landlord Do About Unpaid Rent in Malta?

When rent becomes overdue, the landlord should first check the lease agreement, payment records and bank statements to confirm the amount owed and the applicable payment date.

Contact the tenant promptly in writing. The missed payment may be caused by an administrative mistake or temporary difficulty that can be resolved without formal proceedings.

Provide the tenant with a clear written statement showing the rental periods affected, payments received and total outstanding balance. Keep copies of all messages, reminders, invoices and bank records.

If the arrears are not resolved, the landlord should send a formal demand or judicial letter where appropriate. The document should identify the debt, request payment and provide proof that the demand was delivered.

Any repayment plan should be recorded in writing. It should specify the amount acknowledged, instalment dates and what will happen if the tenant does not follow the arrangement.

The security deposit should not normally be treated as the final rent payment while the tenancy continues unless the landlord expressly agrees. The deposit remains security for obligations arising from the lease.

Persistent non-payment may constitute a serious breach of the lease and could justify proceedings to recover the debt or possession of the property. The correct process depends on the agreement, registration and circumstances.

The landlord should not change the locks, remove the tenant's possessions, enter unlawfully, disconnect utilities or threaten the tenant. Rent arrears do not authorise a landlord to carry out a forced or informal eviction.

Before terminating the lease or filing proceedings, the landlord should obtain advice from a Maltese lawyer. Incorrect notices or procedures may delay recovery and create additional liability.