Rent Reduction and Repairs for Tenants in Poland
As a tenant in Poland you can demand repairs of the apartment and also seek a rent reduction if the landlord does not provide basic conditions. This text will guide you step by step through preparing a repair notice, gathering evidence, expected deadlines and how to calculate a reasonable rent reduction. I explain how to deliver the letter to the landlord, which lease clauses matter and when it is worth using court assistance or mediation. The advice is practical and written in plain language so every tenant can effectively protect their rights without legal expertise. You will also find sample notice wording and tips on which photos and deadlines to keep so that your documentation carries weight in a dispute. If the landlord ignores the letter, I describe further options: filing a case in the district court, mediation and how to use official sources of information.
Step-by-step actions
Legal foundations and statutory regulations describe tenants' rights and landlords' obligations; check the tenancy protection act text before preparing your letter.[1]
Preparing the notice
- Draft a clear notice describing defects and demanding repair (repair).
- Set a deadline for repairs, e.g. 14 days from delivery (within).
- Collect evidence: photos, reports, receipts and correspondence (evidence).
- Deliver the letter to the landlord by registered mail with return receipt or in person with confirmation (deliver).
- Specify a concrete rent reduction amount or percentage in the letter if repairs are not made (rent).
- If the landlord does not respond, consider bringing the case to the district court (court).
- Prepare a contingency plan in case you need to move out or return keys (move-out).
Delivery and negotiation
After sending the notice keep proof of delivery and note all conversations with the landlord. If the landlord proposes partial repairs or another solution, record the terms and obtain them in writing. If a dispute arises, prepare calculations showing the rent reduction you claim and from what date it should apply.
When to go to court
If the landlord ignores the notice or refuses to repair, you may file a lawsuit in the district court. Prepare full documentation, evidence and copies of sent notices. Official information and sample letters can help prepare the case.[2]
FAQ
- How long must I wait for repairs?
- In your notice set a reasonable deadline, usually 7–30 days depending on the defect.
- Can I repair defects myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Sometimes yes, but it is best to notify the landlord in writing first and keep receipts as proof; deduction without prior consent may lead to legal dispute.
How-To
- Draft a notice describing the problem and demanding repair.
- Take photos and collect evidence proving the defects.
- Set a deadline for repairs and deliver the notice to the landlord.
- Calculate the proposed rent reduction and justify it with evidence.
- If there is no response, file a claim in the district court.
Key Takeaways
- Collect documents and photos immediately when a defect appears.
- Always send a written notice and keep delivery confirmation.
- If negotiations fail, the district court is the proper forum for disputes.
