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Renting a property in Poland can be a smooth experience, and being well-prepared and well-informed definitely helps. Whether you’re a local or an expat, understanding the complexity of rental agreements in Poland is crucial to avoiding potential issues. Our step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.
Before signing a rental agreement in Poland, it’s crucial to thoroughly review all the terms and conditions. Pay close attention to the rent amount, payment schedule, tenancy duration, deposit requirements, and any additional fees, such as utilities or maintenance charges.
It’s always worth asking the landlord or property manager about the possibility of negotiating the terms. Before signing, make sure that all your questions have been adequately answered and that the contract meets your expectations and needs.
The tenancy agreement should clearly outline the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant. This includes obligations for maintenance, repairs, and any rules regarding the use of the property. The agreement should also specify whether pets are allowed and any restrictions on modifications to the property.
There are always more responsibilities on the tenant’s side, related to taking care of the property - you are required to keep the apartment clean and well-maintained during the tenancy. The timely payment of rent, bills, and other fees is also crucial. Additionally, the contract should include provisions on how to report maintenance issues and the timeline for resolving them.
Additionally, landlords often require tenants to have liability insurance. Even if it is not mandatory, having such insurance is highly recommended, as it protects the tenant from potential financial liability for property damage and provides additional peace of mind.
Beyond the monthly rent, be aware of other potential costs related to renting a property in Poland. In a rental agreement, the rent is often divided into two values - the lease rent and the administrative rent. The latter is the charge to the cooperative or community to which the building belongs, and is usually included in the monthly payments to the landlord - but check with your landlord to be sure. However, beyond the usual costs listed in the agreement, there may be other costs:
Make sure all these costs are clearly stated in the rental agreement to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Security deposits protect landlords from potential financial losses resulting from damage to the property or non-payment by the tenant, and they are standard practice in Poland. Typically, landlords require a deposit equivalent to one or two months’ rent, although this may differ. Make sure your rental agreement specifies the deposit amount, the conditions for its return at the end of the tenancy, and any deductions that may be made for damages or overdue payments.
The security deposit should be returned to the tenant within a certain period after the end of the tenancy; the Law on the Protection of Tenants’ Rights stipulates within 30 days, as long as there are no damages or payment arrears. In the case of a dispute, it can be resolved through mediation or in court. It is of course best to avoid a lengthy formal process, so we strongly encourage you to thoroughly discuss and understand the terms of the deposit with the landlord.
Before moving in, thoroughly check the property and document any existing damages or defects. Take photos and/or videos as proof and make sure that both you and the landlord sign off on a property condition report. This documentation can help avoid conflicts over the security deposit at the end of your tenancy.
Providing a detailed description of the property’s condition in writing and attaching it to the rental agreement can also prove useful. This must include the date and a description of the damage, including its location. Remember to make two copies of the documentation - one for you and one for the landlord.
If you’re unsure about any aspect of your rental agreement in Poland, do not hesitate to seek legal advice. A qualified real estate lawyer can review the contract and provide guidance on your rights and obligations. This step is especially important for expats who may not be familiar with Polish rental laws. Consulting a lawyer will help avoid potential legal problems and ensure that all provisions of the agreement comply with applicable law.
Keeping copies of all relevant documents is essential. This includes the rental agreement, property condition report, rent payment receipts, and correspondence with the landlord. A well-organised document archive can also help you keep track of payments and deadlines, minimising the risk of delays or additional costs.
The content on the simpl.rent website reflects the views of the authors and does not constitute legal advice or legal opinions, nor can it serve as a substitute for them. Please note that each case should be treated individually, taking into account the accompanying circumstances. To determine the legal status in an individual case, we encourage you to seek professional legal assistance.
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