When a Landlord Evicts a Tenant — Rights in Poland
If you received a notice of termination of the rental agreement from the landlord, you may feel worried and uncertain about the next steps. This text explains the most common grounds that allow a landlord to terminate, which deadlines apply in Poland, and which pieces of evidence are worth collecting to protect your rights as a tenant. Practical actions are described: checking the form of the termination, documenting correspondence and arrears, and when to seek legal help or bring the matter to court. I avoid complicated jargon and provide concrete steps a tenant can take to maintain housing security and respond in time. You will also find information about mediation with the landlord, when a termination may be unlawful, and the consequences of unpaid rent. After reading, you will know what documents to prepare and which deadlines to observe.
What to do when the landlord terminates the agreement
First, check whether the notice is in writing and whether a specific basis is indicated. In Poland the landlord must state the reason for termination, and some situations require certain deadlines and formalities.[1]
Keeping records increases your chances of success in disputes.
Grounds for termination
- non-payment of rent (rent) — arrears can entitle the landlord to terminate the agreement.
- breach of rules or serious disturbances (violation) — significant disruptions may be a basis.
- end of a fixed-term contract (deadline) — the contract expired and was not renewed.
- need for renovation or change of use (move-out) — relocation may be required in some cases.
In most cases tenants are entitled to minimum habitability standards.
How to collect evidence
- photos and recordings (evidence) — document the apartment condition and dates.
- receipts and payment confirmations (payment) — show your payment history.
- correspondence and the written agreement (document) — keep SMS and emails.
Deadlines and form of termination
The notice should be delivered in writing and state the deadline for ending the tenancy; deadlines depend on the type of contract and the reason for termination.[2]
Responding within the timeframe is essential to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- Can a landlord terminate a contract without giving a reason?
- Generally the landlord must indicate a reason; exceptions depend on the contract type and Polish regulations.
- Which pieces of evidence are most helpful in a dispute?
- Photos, receipts, the agreement, correspondence and witnesses — organized and dated.
- Which court should you appeal to?
- Rental disputes are handled by the District Court (Civil Division); in eviction cases the court proceedings may lead to enforcement.[3]
How to act
- check the form of the notice and the deadlines (deadline).
- collect evidence: photos, receipts, correspondence (evidence).
- contact a free legal clinic or tenant rights advisor (help).
- if necessary, file a claim in the district court and prepare for the hearing (court).
Key takeaways
- Keep documents and evidence.
- Act quickly and observe deadlines.
- Seek free legal assistance.
Help and resources
- ISAP – Acts and legal texts
- gov.pl – tenant information and guidance
- Ministry of Justice – eviction procedure information
