Is it normal for flats in Lisbon to have no heating?

Unfortunately, yes. Many Portuguese homes, especially older ones, have no central heating and little insulation, so winters indoors can feel colder than you expect. At the viewing: • Ask what heating there is and what the electricity bill is in a winter month. • Check the windows: double glazing makes a big difference. • Look at the energy certificate: classes E and F usually mean a cold home and high bills. • Look for damp and mould: cold homes often have them. The guide on energy certificates explains the letters.