How this works
Moving into a rental costs more than one month. The landlord usually asks for a deposit (a guarantee that just sits there) and the first month’s rent, and sometimes months of advance rent on top. This calculator splits the three apart, shows the total due on signing day, and flags when a figure exceeds what the law allows. The limits come from article 1076 of the Civil Code, as in force in 2026.
- 1
Enter the monthly rent
Everything is computed from this. Use the rent agreed in the contract, in euros.
- 2
Choose the months of deposit
Two months is normal. The law does not let the landlord demand more; if you go higher, the tool warns you.
- 3
Set the 1st rent and advance rent
The 1st rent is the month the lease starts. Advance rent (max 2 months) is optional and needs a written agreement.
- 4
Read the total and your rights
The total due appears below, each part itemised. Under it, a short summary of your rights.
Os seus direitos, em resumo
- A caução tem teto Pelo n.º 2 do artigo 1076.º do Código Civil, a caução não pode exceder duas rendas. Uma cláusula que peça mais é nula no excesso.
- A renda adiantada é limitada e facultativa A renda adiantada só é permitida com acordo escrito e por, no máximo, dois meses. É pagamento de meses futuros, não uma garantia.
- Recibo por cada pagamento O senhorio tem de emitir recibo de renda por cada pagamento (em regra o recibo eletrónico no Portal das Finanças). Guarde todos.
- Devolvida se não for usada No fim, a caução volta para si, salvo rendas em dívida ou danos reais além do desgaste normal — que o senhorio tem de justificar. Fotografe a casa à entrada e à saída.
Frequently asked
How much deposit can the landlord ask for?
Article 1076(2) of the Civil Code says the parties may secure the obligations "up to the value of two months’ rent". Two months is the ceiling. Anything above that is void to that extent — you can refuse to pay the excess. Many landlords ask for exactly two months; nothing stops you negotiating less.
Is the deposit the same as advance rent?
No, and people mix them up. The deposit is a guarantee: it sits as security against damage or unpaid rent and must be returned at the end if unused. Advance rent is actual payment for future months — those months are paid up front. The law treats them separately (art. 1076). The contract should name each one distinctly.
Why is the upfront total usually three months?
Because they add up different things. At the start you pay the 1st month’s rent (the month the lease begins, which is not an advance) plus a two-month deposit. One month + two months’ deposit = three months upfront, with no advance at all. If advance rent is added on top, the law allows at most two more months, and only with a written agreement.
Must the landlord issue a rent receipt?
Yes. The landlord must issue a rent receipt for each payment — normally the electronic receipt via the tax portal, or a paper receipt with the legal details if exempt. Keep them all; they prove what you paid and how long you have rented. With no receipt you have no evidence before the tax authority or in court.
When do I get the deposit back?
The deposit is a guarantee, not a payment: if at the end there is no damage beyond normal wear and no rent owed, it should be returned. The landlord may deduct the cost of real damage you caused, but must justify it. Photograph the home the day you move in and the day you leave — that is your best protection.
DISCLAIMER
This tool does the arithmetic and summarises general Civil Code rules for residential tenancies; it is not legal advice and does not replace reading your contract. Special cases (commercial leases, old contracts, rent support schemes) have their own rules. When in doubt, talk to a lawyer or solicitor.