Court settlement for tenants - enforcing claims in Poland

Repairs & maintenance – tenant/landlord duties 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

If you are a tenant in Poland and have signed a court settlement with the landlord, it is important to know the steps to effectively pursue claims and the enforcement mechanisms. This article explains when a settlement becomes an enforceable title, what documents to collect, how to file a request with a bailiff and when to report problems with repairs or deposit refunds. We cover simple deadlines, tenant rights and landlord obligations, as well as practical instructions useful in disputes over rent, repair costs or eviction. The article also suggests how to prepare evidence and where to find official templates to increase the chances of successful enforcement of the settlement.

What is a court settlement and when can it be enforced

A court settlement is an agreement approved by a court in which the parties agree on the dispute resolution. If the settlement contains a provision that it is an enforceable title, it can be used to start enforcement against the debtor. Regulations regarding settlements and tenant protection arise inter alia from the Act on the protection of tenants and civil law provisions.[1]

When a settlement becomes an enforceable title

For a settlement to be an enforceable title, it usually must be in writing and contain an explicit provision authorizing enforcement. If such a provision is missing, it may be necessary to obtain a final court judgment or to have an enforcement clause attached. The application to the bailiff is made on the basis of an enforceable title and the enforcement procedure.[2]

Documents and evidence

  • The lease agreement and the text of the court settlement.
  • Payment receipts, invoices and proof of payments.
  • Photos of property damage and handover protocols.
  • Correspondence with the landlord (emails, SMS, registered letters).
  • Witness statements and other written evidence.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.

Common issues about repairs and costs

Disputes often arise over who is responsible for repairs and who should pay for services. Before seeking enforcement, check the lease terms and consult guidance on tenant and landlord repair and maintenance obligations. See our guide on repairs and responsibilities: Repairs and maintenance – tenant/landlord obligations.

In most cases tenants are entitled to safe and habitable living conditions.

How to carry out enforcement of a settlement

  1. Check whether the settlement is an enforceable title or requires an enforcement clause.
  2. Gather all evidence: agreements, letters, photos and payment proofs.
  3. Send the debtor a clear demand for payment with a deadline.
  4. If there is no voluntary payment, file an enforcement request with the bailiff together with the enforceable title.
  5. The bailiff will initiate enforcement - monitor actions and provide additional information if needed.
  6. If the case becomes complicated, consider mediation or legal assistance to avoid excessive costs and delays.
Responding to court letters and payment demands on time is essential to avoid losing rights.

Key takeaways

  • A settlement can be an enforceable title if it has the proper form.
  • Collect documents and evidence before filing a bailiff request.
  • Use mediation or legal help when enforcement encounters obstacles.

FAQ

Does a court settlement always entitle enforcement?
Not always; the settlement must include or obtain an enforcement clause to serve as a basis for enforcement.
How long does enforcement by a bailiff take?
Timing depends on the type of enforcement and the debtor's assets; there is no fixed term, so act promptly and compile evidence.
Can a bailiff enter a tenant's apartment?
The bailiff has defined powers but cannot unlawfully violate privacy; details are governed by enforcement law.
What to do if the landlord does not repair defects after a settlement?
Document defects, send a repair demand, and if ineffective, enforce claims from the settlement or seek court action.

How to

  1. Verify the settlement content and check for an enforcement clause.
  2. Prepare a complete set of documents: agreements, payment proofs and correspondence.
  3. Send a formal demand for payment with a final deadline.
  4. If there is no payment, file an enforcement request with the bailiff along with the enforceable title.
  5. Provide the bailiff with any available information about the debtor's assets.
  6. If needed, obtain legal assistance or mediation.

Help and support

  1. [1] ISAP - Act of 21 June 2001 on the protection of tenant rights
  2. [2] Ministry of Justice - information on enforcement and procedures

Categories

Tenant Rights Act – tenant rights Fixed-term vs open-ended tenancy – differences Security deposit – refund, deductions, limits Rent – increases, CPI indexation, reductions Utilities & charges – settlements, waste, meters Repairs & maintenance – tenant/landlord duties Works and right of entry Tenant termination – notice & form Landlord termination, arrears & eviction Check-in/out protocol, keys & handover Heating & hot water – underheating, failures Defects: damp, mould, unfit conditions Nuisance & neighbours – noise, quiet hours Pets in rentals – rules Subletting & short-term lets (Airbnb) Occasional & institutional lease – differences Shared tenancies & room rentals Damage & liability (deductions/insurance) Offences & liability – electricity theft etc. Municipal & social housing – rules Housing & energy allowances Disability & reasonable adjustments (access) Landlord access & viewings Rent clauses & indexation (CPI/GUS) Templates – tenant termination letters GDPR: data protection & tenant documents Mediation & dispute resolution
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Poland

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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