What to do if the owner changes their mind about renting

What to do if the owner changes their mind about renting

It’s not uncommon for an owner to suddenly refuse to rent after a preliminary agreement. This is especially frustrating if you’ve already planned the move, paid a deposit, or turned down other options. Know your rights and act correctly to minimise losses.

Why owners change their minds

• Personal circumstances. The owner wants to house relatives or live there themselves.
• Price increase. After talks, they find someone willing to pay more.
• Lack of trust. Doubts about the tenant’s solvency or reliability.
• Sale of the flat. The owner decides to sell instead of rent.

Your rights as a tenant

It depends on the stage you’re at:

• No contract signed. Without a written agreement, there are no binding obligations. Your loss is mainly time.
• Contract signed. The landlord must honour it. An unjustified refusal can trigger liability.
• Deposit or prepayment made. Even without a contract, you can demand a refund and possibly compensation.

What to do if the owner backs out

1. Stay calm

Emotions won’t help. Act rationally and within the law.

2. Ask for a written explanation

Request a written refusal or at least confirmation in correspondence. It will help if you need to go to court.

3. Recover your deposit

If you paid a deposit/prepayment, demand a refund. If refused, you have grounds for a complaint or claim.

4. Rely on legal protections

If you signed a Najem Okazjonalny contract, the landlord can’t simply walk away. A notarised agreement protects the tenant and obliges the landlord to comply.

5. Consider alternatives

Sometimes it’s easier to find a new place than to litigate. Still, pursue your refund and document all arrangements.

How to avoid such problems

• Sign a written contract only after clear terms are agreed.
• Don’t transfer large sums without written confirmation.
• Use Najem Okazjonalny for maximum protection.
• Keep all messages and payment confirmations.

FAQ

Conclusion

If the owner changes their mind, the key question is whether a contract is signed. Without a contract you mainly lose time, but with a deposit or signed papers you have legal grounds to claim a refund and compensation. To avoid issues, always sign an official contract and document all payments.