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Sale of the apartment and an ongoing tenancy
The landlord may decide to sell the premises, but this does not automatically end the tenancy. The parties' rights and duties arise primarily from the agreement and the provisions of the Civil Code and the Act on the Protection of Tenants' Rights.[1] A change of owner may affect communication and payments, but by itself it does not give anyone the right to enter the apartment freely.
The tenant should continue paying rent and performing contractual duties, while the landlord should respect the tenant's possession of the premises. If a buyer wants to view the apartment, it is best to arrange the visit in advance and confirm it in writing.
How to arrange visits from potential buyers
An early conversation can reduce disputes. Suggest specific days and times that do not conflict with work, rest, or household responsibilities. Also agree who will be present, whether the landlord will come with an agent, and how long the viewing will last.
- Agree on viewing times and require advance confirmation of the appointment.
- Ask that entry to the premises take place only with your consent.
- Record the dates, people present, and key arrangements after each visit.
- Remove or secure documents, keys, medication, and other private items before viewings.
Photographs and recordings in the apartment
State clearly whether you agree to photographs or recordings of the interior. The apartment may contain personal data, documents, or items that reveal how household members live. You may ask that photography be limited to features needed to present the property and request deletion of the materials after the sale ends if there is no basis for continued use.
What to do about an unannounced visit
If someone appears without an arrangement, you may calmly refuse entry and explain that visits should be agreed in advance. You do not have to continue a conversation at the door if you feel threatened. Keep messages, call history, and your own note recording the date and description of the event.
- Do not let unknown people in without confirming their identity and the purpose of the visit.
- Document repeated attempts to enter and every breach of the arrangements.
- In the event of an immediate threat, contact the police or the emergency number.
When the landlord exceeds the agreed boundaries
First, send a short and factual message. Describe what was problematic, remind the landlord of the agreed rules, and suggest a specific solution. Avoid threats and insulting language, because calm correspondence may later help clarify the matter.
If the problem continues, collect the tenancy agreement, messages, notes, and any witness statements. You may seek advice from a municipal or district consumer ombudsman only on matters within that office's competence, and for tenancy matters look for free legal assistance at a local government centre. If there has been a serious violation of possession or damage has occurred, consider discussing further steps with a lawyer.
Can the lock be changed
Do not take hasty action that could breach the agreement or make access during an emergency more difficult. If you fear that someone has an unauthorized key, notify the landlord in writing and propose a solution that protects both parties' safety. Replacing a lock without agreement may become an additional source of dispute, so keep receipts and explain the reason for the action.
Key rules for a tenant
- You may expect respect for your privacy and peaceful use of the rented premises.
- Arrange visits in advance and limit them to a reasonable period.
- Keep the agreement, correspondence, and evidence concerning every disputed event.
- In a serious conflict, consider legal advice or pursuing claims before the district court's civil division.
Frequently asked questions
- Can the landlord enter the apartment without the tenant's consent?
- As a rule, entry should be agreed with the tenant, except in emergencies or other special cases provided by law.
- Do I have to agree to every buyer's visit?
- You do not have to accept any time or an unannounced entry, but it is worth cooperating with reasonably agreed viewings.
- Does selling the apartment end the tenancy agreement?
- The sale itself usually does not automatically end an ongoing tenancy; the agreement, its type, and applicable laws are relevant.
- What should I do if visits are persistent?
- Send a written request that visits be agreed, preserve evidence, and seek legal advice if the breaches continue.
How to conduct a viewing safely
- Check the tenancy agreement and note the rules concerning the landlord's access to the premises.
- Send the landlord a message with proposed dates, the viewing duration, and photography rules.
- Before the visit, secure private belongings and confirm who will come to the apartment.
- After the meeting, note what happened during the viewing and keep the correspondence.
- If the landlord ignores the arrangements, obtain legal assistance and consider a formal demand.
Help and resources
- Texts of legislation in the Internet System of Legal Acts
- Free legal assistance on gov.pl
- Ministry of Justice