Who Pays for Access to Invoices and Readings — Tenant Poland

Law and documents

As a tenant in Poland you can expect transparency in utility settlements and access to invoices and meter-reading protocols. Agreements on costs for providing documents depend on the lease contract and applicable laws and owner practice. If in doubt, refer to statutes on tenant rights^[1] and civil law rules governing tenancy^[2]. This guide explains when the tenant bears costs and when the owner or service provider is responsible.

Who usually pays

• If the owner demands an extra payment (fee) for providing copies of invoices — the tenant pays only if the lease specifies this.
• If providing access requires preparing special forms or summaries, the owner may attempt to charge costs, but this depends on the lease.
• In billing disputes collect records and evidence of meter readings to prove actual consumption.
• If there is a dispute about refunds or refusal to provide documents, the case may go to the district court.

How to obtain copies and protocols

First, ask the owner for a copy of the invoice and the meter-reading protocol in writing or by email. In the request specify the billing period and the delivery format (scan or paper copy). Record dates of requests and responses — this helps if the case goes to mediation or court. If the owner claims that costs are necessary, ask for a justification and a cost breakdown.

Key takeaways

• Tenants have a right to review billing documents, but costs depend on the lease and circumstances.
• Always request copies in writing and keep communication as evidence.
• If refused, consider mediation, a complaint to authorities, or a claim in the district court.

FAQ

Can the owner charge a fee for a copy of the invoice?

The owner may try to charge a fee, but if the lease does not provide for it the cost does not always fall on the tenant; refer to law and ask for justification^[1].

How long does the owner have to provide documents?

The law does not set a uniform deadline for every situation; assume a reasonable period (e.g., a few working days) and act if the response is delayed.

What to do if the owner refuses to provide documents?

Collect evidence of requests and refusals, seek mediation or file a claim in the district court; contact the municipal office or a lawyer if needed^[2].

How-To

1. Send a written request (email or letter) specifying the billing period and asking for copies of invoices and protocols.
2. Gather evidence: photos of protocols, emails, proofs of payment and meter readings.
3. If refusal persists, send a formal reminder and consider taking the matter to district court.
4. Contact the local authority or a free legal advice center for help.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] ISAP: Act of 21 June 2001 on the protection of tenant rights
• [2] GOV.PL: Information for tenants and utility settlements
• [3] Ministry of Justice: Information on courts and procedures

1. [1] ISAP: Act of 21 June 2001 on the protection of tenant rights
2. [2] GOV.PL: Information for tenants and utility settlements
3. [3] Ministry of Justice: Information on courts and procedures