Abusive landlords ‘not a one-off' - tenants’ union call for landlord licencing
News August 29, 2025

Abusive landlords ‘not a one-off' - tenants’ union call for landlord licencing

Tenants of landlord Robert Borg (pictured) detailed a saga of abuse. Screengrabs: MaltaToday/Facebook.

**Abusive landlords ‘not a one-off' - tenants’ union call for landlord licencing**

A tenants’ union is advocating for mandatory landlord licensing following a series of disturbing accounts from tenants of Robert Borg, highlighting what they describe as a pattern of abusive behavior. The union argues that such instances are not isolated incidents but rather symptomatic of a broader problem within the rental market, demanding greater regulation to protect vulnerable renters.

Tenants have come forward to share their experiences with Borg, painting a picture of neglect and intimidation. While specific details of the allegations were not immediately available, the tenants' union emphasizes that the shared experiences point to a systemic issue requiring urgent attention. Screengrabs circulating online, reportedly sourced from MaltaToday and Facebook, appear to support the claims of tenant mistreatment, although the exact content remains unspecified.

The call for landlord licensing aims to establish a framework of accountability and standards within the rental sector. Under such a system, landlords would be required to meet certain criteria, such as ensuring properties are maintained to a habitable standard and adhering to fair rental practices, before being granted a license to operate. This license could then be revoked if landlords are found to be in breach of regulations, providing a tangible deterrent against abusive behavior.

The tenants' union believes that licensing would not only protect tenants from exploitation but also raise the overall quality of rental properties. They argue that it would create a level playing field, encouraging responsible landlords to invest in their properties and weeding out those who prioritize profit over the well-being of their tenants.

The union plans to lobby government officials and raise public awareness about the need for landlord licensing. They are encouraging tenants who have experienced similar issues with landlords to come forward and share their stories, further demonstrating the scale of the problem and the urgency of the proposed solution. The case involving Robert Borg, they say, serves as a stark reminder of the power imbalance that exists in the rental market and the vulnerability of tenants without adequate legal protections.
Category: Politics