How CPI (GUS) Affects Tenant Rent in Poland
As a tenant in Poland you may encounter lease clauses linking rent indexation to the CPI published by GUS. This article explains step by step what the CPI is, how to check current GUS data, when a landlord can use that indicator for a rent increase, and what rights you have as a tenant. I also cover practical steps: where to find official publications, how to document rent changes, and when to negotiate or seek legal advice. The information is practical and tailored to tenants living in Poland so you can respond knowledgeably to proposed rent hikes or indexation.
What is CPI (GUS)?
CPI (Consumer Price Index) published by the Central Statistical Office measures the average change in prices of consumer goods and services over a specified period. For tenants, it is important that not every rise in CPI automatically gives the landlord the right to raise rent; the lease and the way indexation is written are key.[2]
How CPI affects rent
A landlord may refer to CPI only if the lease contains an explicit clause on indexation or rent adjustment tied to that index. Tenant protections prevent unilateral and unjustified increases, and detailed tenancy rules are set out in statute, which is useful in disputes.[1]
What an indexation clause should include
A clear clause specifies which CPI (monthly/annual), the comparison period, the calculation formula, and any caps or maximum increase. Lack of precision in the lease gives the tenant more room to negotiate or refuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord unilaterally raise rent based on the CPI?
- Not always — a CPI-based increase requires a clear clause in the lease. If there is no such clause, the landlord cannot unilaterally apply indexation.
- Where to check the current CPI?
- Current data are published by GUS and official government services; record the download date and source when comparing figures.[2]
- What to do if I disagree with a rent increase?
- Gather documents, written notices, and calculation evidence; try to negotiate first, and if that fails, consider mediation or bringing the case to the district court (civil division).[3]
How to check CPI (GUS)
- Review your lease to determine whether and how rent indexation is specified.
- Visit official GUS publications or the gov.pl portal and download the latest CPI and historical data for the period specified in your lease.[2]
- Compare the periods according to the lease formula and calculate the proposed rent change.
- Document your calculations: save screenshots, download dates and sources; send the result to the landlord in writing or by email.
- If you doubt the correctness of the calculations or compliance with the lease, seek legal advice or consult the district court.
Help and support
- ISAP - Act on the Protection of Tenants (statute text)
- GOV.PL - GUS and statistical publications
- Ministry of Justice - court information
