Renting housing in Poland for Ukrainians: basic terms and explanations

When renting housing in Poland, Ukrainians often encounter legal terms that are difficult to understand. The type of agreement, the deposit, and residence registration - all of this affects your safety, costs, and legalization of stay. Below we explain the main terms related to renting an apartment in Poland in simple words.

Umowa najmu - tenancy agreement

What is it?

Umowa najmu is a standard agreement for renting an apartment or a room in Poland. It specifies the parties, the address of the property, the rental period, the amount of rent, and the conditions for termination. What to pay attention to before signing:

• the term of the agreement (fixed-term or indefinite);
• the amount of rent and additional charges;
• conditions for returning the deposit;
• the notice period in case of termination.

Can it be terminated earlier? Yes, but only under the conditions specified in the agreement. If it is a fixed-term agreement, early termination is possible only if there is a relevant clause.

Kaucja - rental deposit

What is it? Kaucja is a guarantee amount that the tenant pays to the owner before moving in. Usually, it is equal to 1–2 monthly rental payments.

When is it returned? After the agreement ends. The owner must return the deposit within 30 days after moving out.

For what reasons may it not be returned?

• damage to the property;
• debts for rent or utility payments;
• breach of the agreement terms.

Is it legal to keep it for “normal wear and tear”? No. Normal wear of furniture or walls is not a valid reason to withhold the deposit.

Meldunek - residence registration

Is it mandatory? Yes, if you live in Poland for more than 30 days.

Is it needed for a residence card? Meldunek is not always a mandatory document for a residence card, but it often confirms the actual place of residence.

Temporary and permanent meldunek - what is the difference?

temporary — for a fixed period; permanent — without a time limit, if there is a right to permanent residence.

Najem okazjonalny - a special type of agreement

What is it? Najem okazjonalny is a form of rental agreement with additional protection for the property owner.

Why do owners require it? It simplifies the eviction procedure in case of breach of the agreement.

Is it safe for the tenant? Yes, if you comply with the agreement terms. However, when signing it, you need to provide a notarized statement and indicate an address where you can move in case the agreement is terminated.

Opłaty eksploatacyjne and czynsz - what is included in the payment

What is czynsz?

Czynsz administracyjny is a payment to the building administration. It may include:

• cleaning of the staircase;
• garbage collection;
• heating;
• water;
• elevator maintenance.

What are opłaty eksploatacyjne? These are additional utility costs — gas, electricity, internet. Why can the amount change? Utility tariffs change. In addition, recalculation is made according to actual consumption.

Advice from Gremi Personal

Before signing a rental agreement in Poland, carefully check all the conditions. Pay attention to the type of agreement, the amount of the deposit, and additional charges. This will help avoid financial risks and problems with legalization of stay.

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