Tenant protection from eviction in Poland

Many tenants in Poland fear eviction during winter, especially when arrears accumulate for several months. This article explains when and under what conditions you can expect protection against immediate removal from housing, what the tenant's and landlord's duties are, and what steps to take to gain time or support. I describe court and enforcement procedures in simple terms, indicate documents worth collecting, and official sources of help in Poland. The article will help you decide whether to contact a lawyer, the district court or a support institution, and what information to prepare before the conversation.

What protects a tenant from eviction in winter?

In the Polish legal system there is no automatic ban on eviction in winter, but circumstances and procedures can delay or complicate enforcement of an eviction judgment. The court and bailiff consider, among other things, the tenant's personal situation, presence of minors or dependent persons, and lack of alternative housing. In debt cases, tenants should prepare evidence of income, attempts to negotiate with the landlord, and applications for social assistance.^[1]

When eviction can be suspended

• When the court grants a postponement of enforcement due to the tenant's health or family situation.
• When support institutions intervene and propose temporary solutions.
• When an appeal or complaint against the decision is pending and enforcement is suspended until resolution.

What to do after receiving a notice or eviction order

If you receive a termination of the lease or a court order, first check deadlines: when the notice period ends, when you can appeal, and what the enforcement date is. Gather the lease, payment receipts, evidence of correspondence with the landlord, and any certificates of income. Contact the local Social Welfare Center and consider consulting a lawyer or a free legal clinic. You can also file a request to split the debt into installments or ask for postponement of enforcement.

FAQ

Is there a ban on eviction in Poland in winter?

There is no permanent nationwide ban on eviction in winter, but the court may postpone enforcement due to personal or social circumstances.

Which documents help defend against immediate eviction?

The lease agreement, proof of rent payments, correspondence with the landlord, income certificates and medical or social documentation can be helpful.

Where to seek legal and social help?

First contact the Social Welfare Center, a local legal clinic or the city office; in court matters, free legal aid can also be provided by legal clinics.

How to

1. Check letters from the landlord and court and note all enforcement and appeal deadlines.
2. Collect evidence: the lease, payment confirmations, correspondence and documents about health or family situation.
3. Contact the Social Welfare Center and a free legal clinic; ask for possible support or mediation.
4. If the case reaches a bailiff, file a request to postpone enforcement or split the debt and prepare social evidence.

Key takeaways

• Absence of a general winter eviction ban means protection depends on the specific situation.
• Documentation and prompt action increase the chances of postponement or installment plans.
• Use the Social Welfare Center and legal aid — institutions can offer support and alternatives.

Help and resources

• [1] ISAP - Act on the Protection of Tenants' Rights
• [2] GOV.PL - Citizen information and forms
• [3] Ministry of Justice - procedural information

1. [1] ISAP - Act on the Protection of Tenants' Rights
2. [2] GOV.PL - Citizen information and forms
3. [3] Ministry of Justice - procedural information