The new changes came into force on 1 October 2026 with the aim to clarify and specify the rights and obligations of the parties to a tenancy. The changes are intended to reduce disputes and improve the functioning of the rental markets.
Key Changes
Notice period
The landlord’s notice period will change as of 1 October 2026. When the landlord terminates the lease, the notice period shall be four months if the tenancy has lasted for at least two consecutive years; otherwise, the landlord’s notice period shall be three months. The new rule only applies to lease agreements made from the beginning of October 2026.
When the tenant terminates the lease, the notice period shall be one month.
Notification
The tenant is now required to notify the landlord of the persons living in the apartment.
Landlord’s right to rescind the lease agreement
The landlord’s right to rescind (i.e., terminate with immediate effect) the lease will be extended so that the agreement can now be rescinded also if the tenant manages the apartment poorly, the tenant violates the provisions regarding the maintenance of health or order, or if there is another weighty reason for rescinding the agreement. The landlord must, however, give the tenant a written warning before rescinding the lease agreement.
Security deposit
According to the new legislation, the landlord must return the security deposit to the tenant within two weeks after the lease ends. If the landlord intends to withhold all or part of the security deposit, the landlord must inform the tenant within the same fourteen-day period.
Smoking ban
Smoking inside the apartment, or on the balcony of the apartment, or in another private indoor or outdoor space related to the apartment shall be prohibited. However, the landlord may give their permission for smoking, provided that other legislation or housing company rules do not prohibit or prevent it. This smoking ban also extends to tenancy agreements entered into before 1 October 2026.
Should you have any questions relating to the above legislative changes or rental agreements in general, do not hesitate to contact us via email (contact@wdlal.com). You can also contact us on WhatsApp & WeChat (+358 50 3754 096).