Why You Must Read the Lease Before Signing

Why You Must Read the Lease Before Signing

Renting a home in Poland is not just finding a flat — it’s a legal arrangement between tenant and landlord. The most common mistake is signing without carefully reading the terms. That approach can lead to penalties, a lost deposit, and even eviction. Here’s why careful review matters and which clauses deserve special attention.

Main risks of signing “blind”

• Financial loss. Hidden fees and penalties may be buried in the text.
• Eviction risk. Subtle clauses can let the landlord terminate early.
• Deposit issues. Without clear rules, your deposit may not be returned.
• Weak legal protection. Some leases breach the law — tenants discover it too late.

What to verify in the lease

Common tenant mistakes

• Signing a lease in a foreign language without translation.
• Relying on verbal promises.
• Skipping annexes (handover report, statements, guarantor letter).
• Accepting a “template lease” without reading the details.

Practical tips

1. Read the entire document, even if it looks standard.
2. Watch for fine print and footnotes.
3. Match the text to what you agreed verbally.
4. Ask questions and request amendments when needed.
5. For non-Polish speakers: get a translation before you sign.

FAQ

Conclusion

If you sign without reading, you risk your money, housing, and peace of mind. Verify the term, payments, penalties, and annexes. The more carefully you review the lease, the safer and more predictable your tenancy will be.