Why You Must Read the Lease Before Signing
Why you shouldn’t sign a lease “blind.” Key risks, clauses to review, tips for tenants, and mistakes to avoid.
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
| Lease section | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Term | Start/end dates, renewal options | Prevents sudden move-out |
| Payments | Rent amount, utilities, due dates and method | Avoids unexpected costs |
| Deposit | Amount, return conditions | Protects your money |
| Rights & obligations | Repairs, access to the flat, landlord visits | Safeguards tenant privacy |
| Penalties | For late payment, early move-out | Lets you assess real risk |
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
- Read the entire document, even if it looks standard.
- Watch for fine print and footnotes.
- Match the text to what you agreed verbally.
- Ask questions and request amendments when needed.
- For non-Polish speakers: get a translation before you sign.
FAQ
Can I back out after signing?
Usually no, unless specific legal grounds apply. That’s why pre-sign review is critical.
What if the lease has unlawful clauses?
A notary or lawyer can flag issues. Fix them before signing rather than fighting later.
Is Najem Okazjonalny different from a standard lease?
Yes. It requires notarial form and guarantor/tenant statements, increasing landlord security and tenant clarity.
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.
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