Poland’s Ministry of Development introduces amendments allowing property managers to force entry and impose fines up to 5,000 zł for tenants who block building inspections.
Administrators will gain power to enter apartments, even by force
The new regulations directly address the powerlessness of housing cooperatives against non-compliant tenants and those grossly neglecting installations. Currently, owners can refuse inspection even if foul odors or gas leaks are suspected. The proposal grants managers the right to force entry during sanitary or fire hazards.
The presence of police or firefighters will suffice to open doors against a tenant’s will or when they’re absent.
Refusing entry will result in significant fines
A heavy financial penalty of 20 to 5,000 zł will be imposed on apartment owners who persistently refuse access for inspections. The building supervision authority will enforce these sanctions at the request of property managers, targeting those who block technical checks and endanger neighbors’ safety.
New measures aim to eliminate safety gaps in apartment buildings
The amendment mandates providing access for periodic and emergency inspections of installations and equipment. Routine chimney and gas checks will transition from voluntary to legally enforced obligations, with penalties directly impacting non-compliant owners’ finances.
Ministry cites ineffective sanctions as justification for changes
The Ministry of Development and Technology argues that current laws fail to protect common property. The proposed amendments will precisely define intervention rules when apartment usage threatens building structures or residents’ safety, prioritizing security over owner privacy.
Documents have entered public consultation phase, with the new law potentially taking effect within months.
Reform will transform tenant-manager relationship dynamics
This reform equips property managers with tools to effectively enforce post-inspection requirements. Previously, housing associations faced legal barriers in compelling owners to fix defects causing damage to neighboring apartments.
Post-amendment, any refusal to open doors during crises or scheduled inspections will trigger swift disciplinary action and substantial fines.
