Underheating and Tenant Rights in Poland
If your apartment in Poland is underheated due to central heating issues, you have rights as a tenant and concrete steps you can take. This guide explains how to gather evidence, report the fault to the landlord or manager, request repairs and seek a rent reduction or reimbursement for lack of heat. We suggest deadlines, sample written notifications and documents that improve the chances of a quick resolution. We describe when to contact technical services or the district court and what claims can be made, from reducing the fee to recovering expenses. Information is based on applicable laws and official sources.[1][2] At the end you will find practical steps for filing a claim and a list of institutions that can assist tenants.
What to do when your apartment is underheated
First check and record the temperature in key rooms and at set times. Take photos of valves, radiators and any leaks. Contact the landlord or manager in writing — email or registered letter is best evidence.
What to record and how to document
- List dates and times when the apartment is too cold.
- Take photos of the thermometer and installation condition.
- Save correspondence with the landlord and proof of sending notifications.
- Keep receipts for alternative heating or repairs.
Your rights and obligations
As a tenant you are entitled to basic habitability; the landlord is responsible for a working heating installation and repairs from normal wear. You must allow access for repair works and notify the landlord about faults within a reasonable time.
How to claim refunds or rent reductions
If the landlord does not respond, you can demand a rent reduction for the period the apartment was underheated or reimbursement for documented expenses for substitute heating. First send a formal repair demand with a deadline for action.
- Send a written repair demand describing the issue and requesting action.
- Keep proof of repairs and receipts for expenses.
- If no response, file a claim in the district court for monetary relief.
Court process and mediation
Cases about failure to perform repair obligations or reimbursement are handled by the district court (civil division). Consider mediation before court — it can be cheaper and faster. Attach evidence, witness statements and invoices to your claim.
FAQ
- What can I do if the apartment is cold for several days?
- Report the issue to the landlord in writing, collect evidence and demand repairs; if there is no response you may request a rent reduction or reimbursement and consider filing a claim in the district court.
- How should I document underheating?
- Record dates and times, take photos and temperature readings, keep correspondence and receipts for alternative heating.
- Can I order repairs myself and request reimbursement?
- In emergencies, after notifying the landlord, you may order service and later seek reimbursement, but keep all invoices and proof.
How to
- Check room temperatures and record values and dates.
- Take photos, measure temperature and collect receipts for extra heating.
- Send a written notice to the landlord or manager describing the fault and requesting repair.
- Allow service access and record the visit date and outcome.
- Request a rent reduction or reimbursement in writing and attach evidence.
- If no response, file a claim in the district court or use mediation.
Help and support / Resources
- [1] Act on the Protection of Tenants — ISAP
- [2] Civil Code — ISAP
- [3] Ministry of Justice information
