Retired tenant files criminal complaint after landlord assault in Sesimbra
A retired maritime worker in Sesimbra has filed a criminal complaint after being assaulted by their landlord. The tenant, who survives on a €570 monthly pension, claims to have faced violence and worsening living conditions for years. Despite paying rent, they have never received a formal lease or receipts.
The tenant has lived in the property for two years without a written agreement. After requesting rental documents, they were physically attacked. Witnesses confirmed seeing the assault, which led to the police report.
The landlord denied any wrongdoing when contacted for comment. Meanwhile, Sesimbra City Council stated it could not assist the tenant due to the lack of a formal contract. Portugal has seen a rise in legal action against violent landlords in recent years. Since 2021, stricter enforcement of housing laws and higher conviction rates have been recorded. In 2024 alone, the Public Prosecutor's Office prosecuted 15 such cases. The Ministry of Justice also launched victim support programmes in 2023, focusing on Lisbon and Porto, where most incidents occur.
The tenant continues to live in the property while awaiting legal proceedings. Without a contract, they remain ineligible for council support. The case adds to a growing number of disputes over informal rentals in Portugal.
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