Poland: Legal risks of unpaid housing fees and property loss

In Poland, property owners face legal risks regarding their homes due to unpaid debts to housing cooperatives or communities. While there is no law stating that three months of unpaid fees automatically results in the loss of a home, accumulating arrears can trigger legal proceedings and potential forced sales under the Act on Ownership of Premises.

Property owners remain obligated to pay for the maintenance of common areas, utilities, and building repairs, even if they hold a separate land and mortgage register. Owning a unit does not exempt an individual from these costs. Unpaid debts can lead to court judgments for payment, which may subsequently lead to enforcement actions by a bailiff.

Legal experts note that ignoring official court documents or payment demands can significantly reduce the time available for defense. Furthermore, housing communities have the right to sue owners to recover costs related to common property and shared services, regardless of whether the owner is a member of the cooperative.