Pet Rental Market in Malta
Finding pet-friendly apartments in Malta can be challenging, but it's certainly possible with the right approach. While Malta doesn't have specific laws protecting tenants with pets, many landlords are open to allowing animals—especially if you present yourself as a responsible pet owner.
The availability of pet-friendly rentals varies by property type and location. Generally, standalone houses and ground-floor apartments with outdoor access are more likely to accept pets than upper-floor apartments in buildings with shared common areas.
More Likely to Accept Pets
- • Standalone houses/villas
- • Ground-floor apartments with gardens
- • Properties in quieter/suburban areas
- • Unfurnished properties
- • Private landlords (vs agencies)
- • Long-term rentals (1+ years)
Less Likely to Accept Pets
- • Furnished luxury apartments
- • Upper-floor apartments in blocks
- • Buildings with strict condominium rules
- • Short-term/holiday rentals
- • Properties with expensive finishes
- • Small studio apartments
Pet Acceptance by Pet Type
Finding Pet-Friendly Rentals
Searching for apartments that allow pets in Malta requires a targeted approach. Here are the best strategies for finding pet-friendly housing.
1. Use Pet Filters on Rental Platforms
Many rental websites allow you to filter for pet-friendly properties. On MyRent, look for listings that specifically mention "pets allowed" or use the pet filter in search.
- • Filter by "pets allowed" if available
- • Search keywords: "pet friendly", "dogs welcome", "cats ok"
- • Look for properties with gardens or outdoor space
2. Contact Landlords Directly
Even if a listing doesn't mention pets, it's worth asking. Many landlords are open to discussion but don't advertise it.
- • Be upfront about your pet in initial contact
- • Provide details: type, size, age, temperament
- • Mention if your pet is trained/well-behaved
3. Target Pet-Friendly Areas
Some areas in Malta are more accommodating for pets due to property types.
- • Mellieħa: More houses with gardens, near countryside
- • Mosta/Naxxar: Suburban with more outdoor space
- • Gozo: Rural properties, more pet-tolerant
- • Marsascala: Seaside with dog-walking areas
4. Join Pet Owner Communities
Malta has active pet owner groups where members share pet-friendly rental leads.
- • Facebook: "Dogs of Malta", "Malta Pet Owners"
- • Expat groups often share pet-friendly listings
- • Word of mouth from fellow pet owners
Pro Tip: Start Early
Pet-friendly rentals get snapped up quickly. Start your search 6-8 weeks before you need to move, and be ready to act fast when you find a suitable property. Have your pet references and documents ready to share immediately.
Negotiating with Landlords
Many landlords who initially say "no pets" can be persuaded if you approach the conversation professionally. Here's how to present yourself as a responsible pet owner.
Creating a Pet Resume
A pet resume or "pet CV" can help convince hesitant landlords. Include:
- Photo of your pet: A cute, well-groomed photo helps
- Basic info: Breed, age, weight, spayed/neutered status
- Vaccination records: Proof of up-to-date vaccines
- Training certifications: Obedience classes completed
- References: Previous landlord or vet contact
Negotiation Strategies
Offer a Higher Deposit
Propose an additional pet deposit (€200-500) to cover potential damages. This shows you're serious and reduces landlord risk.
Provide References
A letter from your previous landlord confirming no pet-related issues carries significant weight.
Offer to Meet with Your Pet
Let the landlord meet your well-behaved pet. First impressions matter—bring treats and ensure your pet is calm.
Sign a Pet Agreement
Offer to sign a separate pet addendum outlining your responsibilities and commitments.
Commit to a Longer Lease
Landlords prefer stable tenants. Offering a 2-year lease can make them more flexible on pet policies.
Pet Deposits & Additional Costs
Landlords in Malta often request additional deposits or fees for tenants with pets. Understanding these costs helps you budget appropriately.
Typical Pet-Related Costs
| Cost Type | Amount | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Pet deposit (small pets) | €100-300 | Yes, if no damage |
| Pet deposit (dogs) | €200-500 | Yes, if no damage |
| Monthly pet rent | €20-50/month | No |
| Professional cleaning (end of lease) | €100-200 | No |
| Higher rent premium | €50-100/month | No |
Know the Legal Limits
Under Malta's Private Residential Leases Act, the total security deposit is capped at 1 month's rent. Pet deposits may be structured separately or included within this limit. Clarify with your landlord whether the pet deposit is in addition to or part of the standard deposit, and get this in writing.
Contract Terms for Pets
Getting pet permission in writing is essential. Verbal agreements aren't enforceable, and you could face eviction if the landlord changes their mind.
Essential Pet Clauses to Include
Explicit Pet Permission
"The landlord permits the tenant to keep [type of pet] at the property during the lease term."
Pet Description
Specify breed, size, name, and number of pets allowed
Deposit Terms
Amount, conditions for return, and what constitutes "damage"
Tenant Responsibilities
Cleaning, noise control, waste disposal, supervision
Replacement Clause
Whether you can replace the pet if it passes away or if a new pet requires landlord approval
Document Everything
Take photos and videos of the property before moving in with your pet. Document any existing wear, scratches, or stains. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage when you move out.
Common Restrictions
Even pet-friendly landlords may impose certain restrictions. Understanding these helps you set realistic expectations.
Size Limits
- • Weight limits (e.g., max 15kg)
- • "Small pets only" clauses
- • Number of pets (usually 1-2 max)
Breed Restrictions
- • Some breeds banned (Pit Bulls, etc.)
- • Insurance concerns for certain breeds
- • Documentation may be required
Area Restrictions
- • Pets confined to certain rooms
- • No pets on furniture
- • Garden access limitations
Building Rules
- • Condominium pet policies
- • Use of common areas
- • Noise and nuisance rules
Banned Dog Breeds in Malta
Malta has restrictions on certain dog breeds under the Dangerous Animals Act. These breeds are subject to special requirements or may be banned:
- • Pit Bull Terrier
- • Japanese Tosa
- • Dogo Argentino
- • Fila Brasileiro
Check current regulations with the Animal Welfare Department before importing or adopting these breeds.
Tenant Responsibilities
Being a responsible pet owner in a rental property protects your deposit and maintains a good relationship with your landlord.
Your Obligations as a Pet-Owning Tenant
Prevent Property Damage
Provide scratching posts, crate train puppies, protect floors and furniture where possible
Control Noise
Train dogs not to bark excessively, especially at night or when you're away
Clean Regularly
Vacuum frequently, address accidents immediately, control pet odors
Maintain the Garden
Clean up after your pet, repair any holes dug, don't let pets damage plants
Supervise Your Pet
Don't leave destructive pets unattended for long periods; consider pet cameras
Keep Vaccinations Current
Maintain records and ensure flea/tick prevention is up to date
Pet Services in Malta
Malta has a good range of pet services to help you care for your animal companion. Here's what's available.
🏥 Veterinary Care
- • Multiple vet clinics across Malta
- • 24/7 emergency services available
- • Standard consultation: €30-50
- • Pet insurance available
✂️ Grooming
- • Professional grooming salons
- • Mobile grooming services
- • Dog grooming: €25-60
- • Cat grooming: €30-50
🐕 Dog Walking/Sitting
- • Professional dog walkers
- • Pet sitting services
- • Dog walking: €10-20/hour
- • Overnight sitting: €30-50/night
🏨 Boarding/Kennels
- • Licensed boarding facilities
- • Home boarding options
- • Dog kennels: €15-30/day
- • Cat boarding: €10-20/day
Pet Shops & Supplies
Major pet supply stores in Malta:
- • Pet City (multiple locations)
- • Island Pets (Birkirkara, Fgura)
- • Pet Shop (various locations)
- • Online: Amazon, Zooplus deliver to Malta
Bringing Pets to Malta
If you're moving to Malta with pets, you'll need to meet specific import requirements. Rules vary depending on your country of origin.
From EU Countries
Traveling within the EU is relatively straightforward:
- EU Pet Passport (issued by a vet)
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
- Valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days prior)
- No quarantine required
From Non-EU Countries
Requirements are more stringent:
- • Microchip (before rabies vaccination)
- • Rabies vaccination
- • Rabies antibody blood test (from approved lab)
- • 3-month waiting period after blood test
- • Official veterinary health certificate
- • Entry through approved ports only
Plan Ahead
The process for importing pets from non-EU countries can take 4-6 months due to the waiting period after the rabies blood test. Start preparations early. Contact the Veterinary Regulation Directorate for current requirements.
Pet-Friendly Rental Checklist
Use this checklist when searching for and securing a pet-friendly rental in Malta.