The Costly Trap in Old Apartments: Flooring Renovations Can Exceed 5,000 PLN

Renovating older apartments built in the PRL era often reveals toxic “subit” adhesive beneath parquet flooring, potentially saddling owners with significant removal costs and hazardous dust exposure during construction.

The Hidden Danger Beneath Old Parquet

In many apartments, a thick, black layer of adhesive, often colloquially known as “subit,” hides beneath old wooden floors. The problem frequently surfaces during renovations, potentially costing as much as 5,000 PLN for a 50-square-meter area.

Owners may live in a unit for decades without knowing what lies under their floors. It is only when construction crews pry up the boards that this hard, often toxic material, used for decades to secure parquet, is exposed.

Subit: A Toxic Legacy of Construction

Polish regulations prohibit the use of coal tar-based building materials inside structures. While the black color is a common identifier, it does not confirm the specific chemical composition, as some products were asphalt-based while others contained harmful substances.

Owners face a difficult dilemma, as a simple photo cannot determine the material’s composition. It is safer to halt sanding if a black layer is discovered rather than risk spreading hazardous particles.

Budgeting for Professional Removal

The cost of removal often comes as a shock, as it requires specialized labor, heavy machinery, and rigorous dust extraction. In 2026, average rates for subit removal are estimated at approximately 59 PLN per square meter, though costs can reach 100 PLN depending on the complexity.

For an owner of a 55-square-meter apartment, removing subit from 38 square meters could cost over 2,000 PLN, not including the additional expenses of leveling or repairing the concrete floor once the adhesive is removed.

Health Risks and Safe Practices

The greatest danger occurs during renovation when the material is crushed, sanded, or milled, releasing fine dust into the living space. This dust can settle on furniture and clothing, creating a long-term respiratory risk for occupants.

Professional removal requires isolating the workspace and using proper personal protective equipment. Extra caution is necessary in homes where children, seniors, or people with respiratory issues are present.

Liability and Ownership

When the problem is discovered inside a private apartment during a personal renovation, the cost typically falls on the owner. Liability can only be shifted to a housing cooperative or building management if the issue is proven to be linked to structural common areas.

Buyers of secondary-market apartments should be aware of this potential liability. If a seller knowingly hid the presence of subit, the buyer may have legal recourse under warranty or consumer protection laws, though each case requires a careful review of transaction documents.