CPI Rent Indexation in Poland - Tenant Rights
If you are a tenant in Poland and wonder what rent indexation according to the CPI (GUS) means, this article explains it step by step. I cover the legal basics, when a landlord may propose an increase, which documents to collect and how to respond if the increase seems unjustified. The focus is on practical advice for tenants: notice periods, how the index is calculated, rights to rent reduction if the dwelling's condition worsens and where to file a complaint. The text uses plain language to help you understand options and take steps to defend tenant rights in Poland. I also suggest which evidence to gather (receipts, photos), when to seek court help and where to find official letter templates.
What does CPI rent indexation mean?
Rent indexation means that the rental amount may be adjusted based on the inflation index, usually the CPI published by GUS. The terms of indexation must be explicitly stated in the lease agreement or arise from separate arrangements between the parties; tenant protection rules regulate safeguards for tenants.[1] The Civil Code governs contractual obligations and has relevance in disputes over payment amounts.[2]
When can the landlord raise the rent?
- When the lease contains an indexation clause (rent) based on a specified index.
- After the contractual period expires, if the parties agreed on periodic adjustment (rent).
- When the landlord serves a formal notice or proposal to change terms (notice), respecting contractual deadlines.
- When changes are supported by financial documentation and calculations (document) showing the CPI applied.
How to calculate the increase (CPI)?
Typically the landlord multiplies the current rent by the ratio of the new CPI to the base-period CPI, according to the contractual formula. Official CPI data are published by GUS; check which period (month/year) the contract refers to as the reference.[3]
Your rights and how to defend them
- Collect evidence: the lease, receipts, correspondence and photos of the property condition (document).
- Check deadlines and forms of delivery for the proposed change (notice).
- If the landlord violates the law, you can file a claim in court (court) to determine terms or seek a rent reduction.
- Seek support and legal advice from organizations or government portals (contact).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord unilaterally index the rent?
- No, indexation requires a basis in the lease or mutual agreement; unilateral and arbitrary increases can be challenged in court.
- How do I verify that the increase calculation is correct?
- Compare the formula used with the clause in the lease and CPI data published by GUS; request detailed calculations from the landlord.
- Where to file a complaint or claim?
- For property-related rental disputes the District Court (Civil Division) is competent; you can also find assistance on government websites.
How to proceed
- Gather documents: lease, receipts, correspondence and photos (document).
- Ask the landlord for a written explanation and detailed calculation (notice).
- If explanations are insufficient, file a claim or mediation request at the court (court).
- Consult a lawyer or tenant support organization (contact).
- As a last resort consider alternatives such as negotiating terms or finding another place (move out).
