Open the Door or Face a 5,000 PLN Fine

10 August 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Poland’s UD313 draft could create an access to apartment fine up to 5,000 PLN for blocked inspections and urgent repairs.

A draft law would let authorities impose an access to apartment fine of up to 5,000 PLN on tenants. Consequently, the change targets cases when landlords or managers cannot reach flats for safety checks or urgent repairs.

Table of Contents

Why the proposal matters

Poland’s UD313 amendment aims to modernise tenant rules. Moreover, it would require tenants to allow access for gas, electrical and ventilation inspections. However, the proposal remains a draft. Therefore, the new sanction does not apply yet.

City officials claim inspectors sometimes cannot enter flats. Consequently, they cannot complete mandatory checks. In addition, damaged gas or ventilation systems can threaten whole buildings. Therefore, the amendment aims to reduce those risks.

Access to apartment fine: what the draft says

The draft links enforcement to building supervision actions. Moreover, it proposes administrative fines up to 5,000 PLN if written notices do not lead to access. However, the measure would not let landlords break in at will. Therefore, officials must follow procedures and notify tenants first.

In emergencies, the draft allows entry with appropriate services. For example, police or firefighters could assist. However, the Ministry of Interior (MSWiA) warns that firefighters do not normally open doors without a fire or urgent rescue need. Consequently, managers may need locksmiths in non-urgent cases.

Constitutional and civic concerns

The Ombudsman’s Office (RPO) raised questions. Moreover, Article 50 of the Polish Constitution protects inviolability of the home. Therefore, critics ask for precise rules that protect privacy and liberties. In addition, they urge courts to limit arbitrary entries.

Lawmakers must balance public safety with privacy. Consequently, the final law could differ from the current draft. Moreover, representatives for seniors and local governments already propose expanding or narrowing the rules. Therefore, the text remains under negotiation.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you rent in Poland, always read written notices about inspections. For expats, remember that institutions like ZUS and NFZ relate to social and health services. Consequently, keep your PESEL or residency details updated. Moreover, verify identities before you open doors. Therefore, call building management if a person claims to act under new rules. Also, know that the proposed fine is not law yet, and you cannot receive it today.

What happens in big cities like Warsaw matters more. Moreover, blocks there contain many interdependent systems. Therefore, a single closed flat can impede a building-wide safety check. In addition, high-density housing increases the chance of shared risks from gas or ventilation problems.

If the law passes, administrators will gain stronger tools. However, judges and civil-rights bodies will likely set boundaries. Consequently, tenants should keep written records of communications about access. Moreover, they should request official notices and proof of identity.

The amendment refers to the 2001 Act on Tenant Rights and to changes in the Civil Code. Therefore, follow parliamentary debates on UD313 if you live here. In addition, consult building management before refusing access to inspectors.

Finally, don’t panic. The fine of 5,000 PLN appears only in a draft. However, prepare for stricter procedures about scheduled checks and emergency entries. Consequently, practical steps include arranging alternate dates and documenting refusals.

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