My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?

Direct answer

First a written demand to the landlord with a deadline (14 days is normal) and your bank details — most deposits come back at this stage. If nothing happens, Julgado de Paz (conselhodosjulgadosdepaz.com.pt) is the body that deals with rent and deposit disputes in Portugal. For advice on what you can claim and what the landlord may deduct, DECO PROteste (deco.proteste.pt). The last step is a small-claims or rent court, where you can usually go without a lawyer.

In Portugal the deposit is agreed in the contract, but the landlord may only demand up to two months' rent in advance; it must be returned at the end of the tenancy minus proven damage.

Call firstJulgado de Paz

Report toDECO PROteste

If that failsBalcão do Arrendatário e do Senhorio (BAS)

🗣️ What to say

"My tenancy at [address] ended on [date]. The deposit of €… has not been returned and I have received no itemised deductions. I request the full amount within 14 days to [IBAN]. Otherwise I will take it to Julgado de Paz."

🪜 Step by step

Write, don't callA dated letter or e-mail with the amount, the end date, your bank details and a 14-day deadline. Keep proof of sending.
Collect evidenceThe signed contract, the move-in and move-out inspection reports, photos with dates, and the proof you paid the deposit.
Ask DECO PROteste what appliesWhich deductions are allowed (unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear) and what is not (repainting, normal wear, cleaning that was not agreed).
File with Julgado de PazThe rent dispute body or deposit scheme handles this without a lawyer and usually within weeks.
Court as last resortSmall-claims procedures exist for exactly this amount range; the landlord usually pays the costs if you win.

📇 All contacts

Julgado de PazMediation and judgment up to €15,000, no lawyer, low feesWhen the formal notice did not work🔗 www.conselhodosjulgadosdepaz.com.pt

DECO PROtesteLegal advice for membersBefore you write, on deductions and deadlines🔗 www.deco.proteste.pt

Balcão do Arrendatário e do Senhorio (BAS)Special procedure for tenancy disputesIf the dispute involves rent or the return of the property🔗 www.justica.gov.pt/Servicos/Balcao-do-Arrendatario-e-do-Senhorio

❓ Frequently asked

How long may the landlord take?

It varies by country, but "a reasonable time" after a final inspection is usually a few weeks; DECO PROteste knows the exact rule for Portugal.

Can the landlord keep it for repainting?

Not for normal wear and tear. Damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent or bills, and cleaning you agreed to do can be deducted — itemised, with receipts.

I have no written contract

You still have a tenancy and still get the deposit back. Bank transfers, messages and witnesses prove the agreement.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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🔑 My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?