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Whether you’re a student embarking on a new adventure, a young professional furthering your career or a family moving to Poland, finding a home is a big step. And with a new language, customs and legalities to navigate, the process can feel daunting, so our guide provides some welcome guidance and clarity.
Renting property in Poland can vary greatly depending on whether you choose a bustling city center or a quieter suburban area. Consider your lifestyle - do you crave the energy of cafés and nightlife, or prefer a peaceful environment? Proximity to work or university is crucial, so factor in commute times. Public transport in Poland is generally good, so research bus, tram, or metro routes near potential properties.
To begin your search for apartment rental in Poland, websites like Otodom and OLX feature a wide range of rental listings. You can filter your search by location, size, price, and amenities. Local Facebook groups can also offer useful insights.
Familiarising yourself with terms such as “kawalerka” (studio), “dwupokojowe” (two-room), “czynsz” (rent), and “opłaty administracyjne” (administrative fees) will help you decode listings and understand what’s included in the rent.
A reputable rental agent (“pośrednik”) can be a valuable asset, as they offer an understanding of the local market and can help you navigate the language barrier. A good agent will listen to your needs, recommend suitable properties, and guide you through the application process.
Benefits of working with a rental agent:
Finding the right property rental agent:
While dealing directly with a landlord can save on agency fees, it requires more legwork and navigating the language barrier. Ultimately, the choice depends on your comfort level and budget.
Schedule viewings during daylight hours and consider bringing someone along for a second opinion. Inspect the apartment meticulously. Check for leaks, cracks, or malfunctioning appliances. Ask about internet availability, storage options, parking and any other factors that are important to you.
1. Rental agreement (“Umowa najmu”):
The rental agreement is a binding contract between you and the landlord. It should clearly state the monthly rent, utilities (often billed separately), duration of the tenancy, and termination clauses.
2. Deposit (“Kaucja”)
Landlords typically require a security deposit (“kaucja”) which is usually one or two months’ rent. This deposit is returned to you at the end of the tenancy, minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
3. Registration (“Meldunek”):
Within 14 days of moving in, you need to register your residence with the local authorities (“urząd meldunkowy”). This process, called “meldunek,” is crucial for obtaining official documents and accessing public services. The agent can usually guide you through this.
4. Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with Polish tenant rights. The Act on the Protection of Tenants’ Rights (“Ustawa o ochronie praw lokatorów”) outlines your rights and responsibilities.
Factor in utilities, internet, and potential agency fees when calculating your monthly rental budget. Remember, there might be additional costs such as furniture.
Unexpected expenses can arise. Be it appliance breakdowns or minor repairs, set aside a small emergency fund for such situations. Consider adding tenant insurance to your budget for additional peace of mind.
Tenant insurance
Imagine accidentally causing a water leak that damages the apartment below, or a small fire ruining your furniture. These situations can be financially stressful. Tenant insurance from simpl.rent, offered in partnership with PZU, a leading Polish insurance company, can safeguard you against such unforeseen events.
We offer three tenant insurance packages: Basic, Plus, and Extra, each providing different levels of coverage. Here’s a quick overview:
Basic: Covers tenant liability for accidental damage to the landlord’s property.
Plus: Includes benefits of Basic, plus coverage for theft of your belongings from the property.
Extra: Offers the most comprehensive coverage, including everything in Plus, along with additional benefits like legal assistance and temporary accommodation in the case of a fire or other emergencies.
Benefits of simpl.rent tenant insurance:
One of the key benefits of simpl.rent tenant insurance is the peace of mind it offers. Knowing you’re financially protected allows you to relax and enjoy your new home.
Simpl.rent provides flexible coverage options tailored to your needs and budget, with the added convenience of a purchase process available in multiple languages. Additionally, the simple and user-friendly platform makes filing a claim quick and hassle-free, so that you get the assistance you need.
Keep copies of all documents related to the rental agreement, including deposit receipts and utility bills. This will be crucial in the unfortunate event of a dispute.
Maintain open communication with your landlord. Notify them promptly of any maintenance issues, and clarify expectations regarding repairs and upkeep.
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.
