Landlord Entry Rights and Tenants in Poland

If you rent a flat in Poland and wonder what to do when a landlord wants to enter the premises, this guide will explain your rights and practical steps. I will cover when a landlord may enter, what obligations the landlord has toward the tenant and how to document events. You will find simple tips on communication, templates for refusal or consent letters, and information about court intervention when the situation violates privacy or safety. The text is written for tenants without legal knowledge, using clear language and concrete actions you can take immediately to protect your rights and your home.

When can the landlord enter the premises?

A landlord generally may not enter the rented flat without the tenant's consent. Law provides exceptions: repairs, emergencies that threaten life or property, and situations requiring immediate intervention. For planned entries the landlord should notify the tenant and obtain consent; without consent it may be necessary to seek a court decision. Legal bases are found in the Act of 21 June 2001 on the protection of tenants' rights^[1] and in the Civil Code^[2].

How to prepare

• Record the date, time and reason for the entry.
• Take photos and recordings as evidence of the flat's condition before and after the entry.
• Keep copies of the tenancy agreement and prior correspondence.
• Request written notice or consent for the entry.
• For emergencies that threaten health or property, call the relevant services and document repair actions.

When to go to court?

If the landlord violates your privacy, makes unauthorized entries, or fails to respect notification obligations, you may consider filing a claim in the district court (civil division) or an action for protection of possession. Eviction and enforcement procedures are regulated by the Ministry of Justice^[3], and disputes are often decided by the district court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord enter without notice?

Only in justified emergencies, such as a hazardous malfunction; in other situations tenant consent or a court decision is required.

What to do if the entry violates privacy?

Collect evidence (photos, recordings, witnesses), notify the landlord in writing and consider taking the case to the district court.

What are the deadlines to file a complaint?

Deadlines depend on the type of claim; civil cases are handled by the district court — consult legal advice or an office if unsure.

How to proceed

1. Check the tenancy agreement and note clauses about the landlord's right of entry.
2. Document every entry: record dates, take photos and gather witnesses.
3. Send the landlord a written request for explanation or refusal of entry and keep a copy.
4. If there is no response or violations continue, file a claim in the district court (civil division).

Help and support

• ISAP — official acts and legislation
• Gov.pl — information for tenants
• Ministry of Justice — procedures and guidance

1. [1] ISAP — Act of 21 June 2001 on the protection of tenants' rights
2. [2] ISAP — Civil Code (selected provisions)
3. [3] Ministry of Justice — information on eviction and enforcement procedures