Who Pays Utilities in Rental Agreements in Poland
Tenants often wonder who in Poland is responsible for utility bills: electricity, gas, water, waste collection or meter settlements. Law and practice depend on the rental agreement terms, how meters are connected and local rules. This article explains basic settlement principles, when a landlord can demand payment, how to document usage and what to do in disputes. You will find practical steps for tenants, tips on written requests and information where to find official regulations and help. The article covers common situations in Poland and suggests how to resolve ambiguities safely. We also provide examples of typical contract clauses and step-by-step instructions on how to file a complaint with the landlord or prepare evidence before taking the case to court.
Who can be charged for utilities?
The basic rule is simple: responsibility for utilities arises from the rental agreement and the method of measuring consumption. If the meter is registered to the tenant or the agreement provides that the tenant covers specific utilities, they usually pay. When utilities are included by the landlord as part of the rent (flat fee), the landlord collects payments and the cost allocation method should be described in the contract. In disputes, refer to tenant protection laws and the Civil Code.[1]
Meters, flat fees or consumption-based settlements
- Payment (payment) for utilities based on individual meters — the tenant pays only their consumption.
- Flat fee (flat) — a fixed charge within the rent; details should be in the agreement.
- Readings and evidence (record, document, photo) — keep invoices and meter photos for possible complaints.
- Shared installations — cost allocation can be proportional to the number of units or follow another algorithm described in the contract.
In practice, differences arise when a meter is shared or the landlord bills based on their readings. Check whether the landlord has the right to enter the premises to read the meter and what the deadlines are for sending bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord impose only their own utility settlements?
- The landlord can propose a settlement method, but terms must be specified in the contract; the tenant should not be charged without an agreement or consent.
- What to do if a utility charge is incorrect?
- Send a written request for explanations and proof (invoices, readings). If the landlord does not respond, file a complaint and gather evidence before taking the case to court.
- Are waste fees the tenant's or the landlord's responsibility?
- Waste collection fees are usually set by the municipality and can be billed separately; the contract should specify who bears them.
How to file a complaint or request a utility settlement
- Collect documents and photos of meter readings and invoices (record, document, photo).
- Send a written request to the landlord with a proposed settlement and a response deadline (notice, form).
- If there is no response, prepare documents and file a claim at the district court or use mediation (court).
Key takeaways
- Check the contract to see who pays for which utilities.
- Keep meter readings and invoices as evidence.
- Send written requests and keep copies of correspondence.
Help and Support / Resources
- ISAP - legislation information
- Gov.pl - public information and services
- MS.gov.pl - court information
