So you've got your acceptance letter, your visa is sorted, and you're ready to start your Polish adventure. But wait – where are you actually going to live? Because let's be honest, you can't exactly sleep in the university library (trust me, I've seen people try, and it doesn't end well).

Finding accommodation in Poland as an international student is like navigating a maze where some paths lead to amazing deals, others to overpriced shoeboxes, and a few to... well, let's just say you'll want to avoid those. The good news? Poland has plenty of housing options, and with the right approach, you can find something that fits both your budget and your sanity.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from university dormitories to private apartments, from Facebook groups to real estate portals, and from what to look for to what to run away from. We'll talk about costs, locations, what questions to ask, and how to avoid the common mistakes that turn your housing search into a nightmare. Because your accommodation is more than just a place to sleep – it's your home base, your study space, and your refuge after a long day of trying to pronounce "przepraszam" correctly.

The Reality Check: What You Need to Know First

Before we dive into the actual search, let's get real about a few things that will save you time, money, and probably a few gray hairs:

Timing is everything:

  • Start early: Like, really early. 3-6 months before your arrival is ideal
  • Peak season: August-September is chaos. Everyone wants housing. Prices go up. Availability goes down.
  • Off-season advantage: If you can arrive in spring or winter, you'll have more options and better prices
  • Last-minute panic: Yes, you can find something last minute, but you'll pay more and have fewer choices

Budget reality:

  • Accommodation will be your biggest monthly expense (usually 30-50% of your budget)
  • Dormitories are cheapest but... basic
  • Private apartments cost more but offer more privacy and comfort
  • Location matters: city center = expensive, outskirts = cheaper
  • Hidden costs: deposits, utilities, internet, furniture

Language barrier:

  • Many listings are in Polish only
  • Google Translate is your friend (but not always accurate)
  • Some landlords speak English, many don't
  • Learning basic Polish phrases helps (a lot)

Your priorities:

  • What matters most: price, location, privacy, or amenities?
  • Are you okay with roommates?
  • Do you need quiet for studying?
  • How important is proximity to university?

Option 1: University Dormitories (Akademik)

What Are Dormitories Like?

University dormitories (called "akademik" in Polish) are the cheapest and most social option. Think of them as student housing on steroids – you get a room (shared or single), access to shared facilities, and a built-in community of fellow students.

Monthly cost:

  • Shared room: 400-600 PLN (€90-130) per month
  • Single room: 600-800 PLN (€130-175) per month
  • Utilities: Sometimes included, sometimes 50-150 PLN extra
  • Deposit: Usually 1 month's rent (refundable)

What you typically get:

  • Basic furniture (bed, desk, wardrobe, sometimes a chair)
  • Shared kitchen facilities (usually one per floor)
  • Shared bathroom facilities (also usually one per floor)
  • Internet access (quality varies from "great" to "does this even work?")
  • Sometimes access to laundry facilities
  • 24/7 security (usually)
  • Common areas (study rooms, sometimes gyms, sometimes... nothing)

What you typically don't get:

  • Privacy (thin walls, shared spaces)
  • Quiet (especially on weekends)
  • Modern facilities (some dorms are... vintage)
  • Choice of roommate (usually random assignment)
  • Kitchen in your room (shared facilities only)

How to Apply for Dormitory

Step 1: Check your university's website

  • Look for "akademik" or "student housing" section
  • Find application deadlines (usually early, like May-June)
  • Check requirements (some prioritize international students, some don't)

Step 2: Submit application

  • Usually online form
  • May require documents (acceptance letter, passport copy)
  • May have priority criteria (distance from home, financial situation, etc.)

Step 3: Wait (and hope)

  • Results usually announced in July-August
  • If you get a spot, you'll get instructions on payment and move-in
  • If you don't... well, that's why we have other options

Pro tip: Apply even if you're not sure you want to live in a dorm. You can always decline later, but you can't get a spot if you don't apply. Plus, it's a great backup option.

Pros and Cons of Dormitories

Pros:

  • Cheapest option – by far
  • Social life – easy to meet people
  • Location – usually close to campus
  • No long-term commitment – usually semester-based
  • Utilities included – or at least predictable costs
  • Security – 24/7 access control
  • No furniture needed – everything is provided

Cons:

  • Limited privacy – shared spaces, thin walls
  • Noise – especially on weekends
  • Basic facilities – quality varies widely
  • Limited availability – not everyone gets a spot
  • Random roommates – you might get lucky, you might not
  • Rules and regulations – curfews, visitors, etc.
  • Shared bathrooms – need I say more?

Reality check: Dormitories are perfect if you're on a tight budget, want to meet people, and don't mind sacrificing some privacy. They're not perfect, but they're affordable and convenient. Many students start in dorms and move to private apartments later.

Option 2: Private Apartments

Types of Private Accommodation

Studio apartment (kawalerka):

  • One room that serves as bedroom, living room, and kitchen
  • Separate bathroom
  • Usually 20-35 m²
  • Best for: Students who want privacy and independence
  • Cost: 1,200-3,500 PLN/month depending on city and location

1-bedroom apartment (mieszkanie 1-pokojowe):

  • Separate bedroom and living room/kitchen
  • Separate bathroom
  • Usually 35-50 m²
  • Best for: Students who want more space or couples
  • Cost: 1,500-4,000 PLN/month depending on city and location

Shared apartment (mieszkanie do wynajęcia, pokój):

  • Room in a shared apartment
  • Shared kitchen, bathroom, common areas
  • Usually 12-20 m² per room
  • Best for: Students who want privacy but can't afford a whole apartment
  • Cost: 800-2,000 PLN/month depending on city and location

Room in a family home (pokój u rodziny):

  • Room in a Polish family's home
  • Sometimes includes meals
  • Shared or private bathroom
  • Best for: Students who want cultural immersion and home-like environment
  • Cost: 600-1,500 PLN/month (more if meals included)

Where to Search for Private Apartments

1. Online Portals (Most Popular)

These are your main hunting grounds. Most have English versions, but Polish listings are more numerous:

Otodom.pl:

  • Largest real estate portal in Poland
  • English version available
  • Filters for price, location, size
  • Both apartments and rooms
  • Pro tip: Use Google Translate for Polish listings – you'll find more options

Olx.pl:

  • Popular classifieds site
  • Mix of private landlords and agencies
  • More casual, sometimes better deals
  • Warning: More scams, be careful
  • Pro tip: Look for listings with photos and detailed descriptions

Gratka.pl:

  • Another major portal
  • Similar to Otodom
  • Good for comparing prices

Nieruchomosci-online.pl:

  • Professional listings
  • Usually higher quality but higher prices
  • More agency listings

2. Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are goldmines for student housing. Search for groups like:

  • "[City] Student Housing" (e.g., "Warsaw Student Housing")
  • "[City] Rooms for Rent" (e.g., "Kraków Rooms for Rent")
  • "[University] Housing" (e.g., "University of Warsaw Housing")
  • "[City] Apartments for Rent" (e.g., "Wrocław Apartments")

Why Facebook groups are great:

  • Direct contact with landlords/roommates
  • Often cheaper (no agency fees)
  • More casual, less formal
  • Can see who you're dealing with
  • Often student-friendly landlords

Why Facebook groups can be tricky:

  • More scams
  • Less formal (no contracts sometimes)
  • Need to be quick (good deals go fast)
  • Language barrier (many posts in Polish)

Pro tip: Join multiple groups, turn on notifications, and check daily. Good deals disappear fast.

3. University Resources

Many universities have:

  • Housing offices – maintain lists of available accommodation
  • Bulletin boards – physical or online
  • Student organizations – sometimes help with housing
  • International student offices – may have resources or recommendations

Pro tip: Contact your university's international office. They often have lists of verified landlords who rent to students.

4. Real Estate Agencies

When to use agencies:

  • You want professional service
  • You don't speak Polish
  • You want help with contracts
  • You're willing to pay agency fees (usually 1 month's rent)

Popular agencies:

  • Expander – large chain, English-speaking agents
  • Century 21 – international brand, professional service
  • Local agencies – often cheaper, but may not speak English

Agency fees:

  • Usually 1 month's rent (sometimes negotiable)
  • Paid once, when you sign the contract
  • Worth it if you want peace of mind and help with paperwork

5. Word of Mouth

Don't underestimate the power of networking:

  • Ask current students (university forums, social media)
  • Ask your university's international student office
  • Join student WhatsApp/Telegram groups
  • Ask in expat groups

Pro tip: Many good deals never make it to public listings – they're passed through student networks. Get connected early.

How to Read Polish Listings (Without Speaking Polish)

Polish rental listings can look like hieroglyphics, but here's your decoder ring:

Key terms:

  • Wynajmę = For rent
  • Pokój = Room
  • Mieszkanie = Apartment
  • Kawalerka = Studio apartment
  • 2-pokojowe = 2-room apartment (usually means 1 bedroom + living room)
  • 3-pokojowe = 3-room apartment (usually means 2 bedrooms + living room)
  • m² = Square meters (size)
  • Czynsz = Rent
  • Kaucja = Deposit
  • Media = Utilities
  • Meble = Furnished
  • Bez mebli = Unfurnished
  • Internet = Internet (sometimes included)
  • Parking = Parking
  • Balkon = Balcony
  • Piętro = Floor
  • Parter = Ground floor
  • Centrum = City center
  • Blisko uczelni = Close to university
  • Dla studentów = For students

Pro tip: Use Google Translate's camera feature to translate listings in real-time. It's not perfect, but it's better than nothing.

What to Look For (And What to Avoid)

Green flags (good signs):

✅ Detailed description – landlord took time to write it ✅ Multiple photos – shows the actual place, not stock photos ✅ Clear pricing – rent, deposit, utilities all listed ✅ Quick response – landlord responds within 24 hours ✅ Willing to show the place – not making excuses ✅ Flexible viewing times – understands you might be abroad ✅ Student-friendly – mentions students, short-term leases ✅ Good location – close to public transport, university, shops ✅ Furnished – especially if you're coming from abroad ✅ Internet included – one less thing to worry about

Red flags (run away):

❌ Too good to be true – suspiciously cheap for the area ❌ No photos – or only one blurry photo ❌ Pressure to pay before viewing – classic scam ❌ Vague description – "nice apartment, call for details" ❌ Unusually high deposit – more than 2 months' rent ❌ Cash only – no contract, no receipts ❌ Can't view in person – "trust me, it's great" ❌ Rush to sign – "sign today or it's gone" ❌ Poor communication – takes days to respond, unclear answers ❌ Bad reviews – if you can find any online

Reality check: If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts. There are plenty of apartments – you don't need to take the first sketchy one you find.

What to Check Before Signing Anything

The Viewing Checklist

When you finally get to see a place (in person or via video call), here's what to check:

Location:

  • [ ] Distance to university (walking, public transport)
  • [ ] Distance to grocery stores, shops
  • [ ] Public transport connections
  • [ ] Safety of the neighborhood (visit at different times if possible)
  • [ ] Noise level (traffic, neighbors, construction)

The apartment itself:

  • [ ] Size matches the listing (bring a measuring tape if you're picky)
  • [ ] Natural light (windows, direction)
  • [ ] Heating system (central heating, electric, gas – important for winter)
  • [ ] Water pressure (test the shower)
  • [ ] Internet connection (ask about speed, test if possible)
  • [ ] Cell phone signal (check your phone)
  • [ ] Storage space (wardrobes, closets)
  • [ ] Kitchen facilities (if you plan to cook)

Furniture and appliances:

  • [ ] What's included (bed, desk, chairs, etc.)
  • [ ] Condition of furniture (not falling apart)
  • [ ] Working appliances (refrigerator, washing machine if included)
  • [ ] What you need to bring yourself

Building and facilities:

  • [ ] Elevator (if on higher floors)
  • [ ] Security (intercom, locks, building security)
  • [ ] Laundry facilities (in building or nearby)
  • [ ] Parking (if you have a car)
  • [ ] Garbage disposal (where, how often)
  • [ ] Mail delivery (mailbox, address)

Utilities and costs:

  • [ ] What's included in rent (utilities, internet, etc.)
  • [ ] Average utility costs (ask landlord or current tenant)
  • [ ] How utilities are paid (separate bills, included, etc.)
  • [ ] Internet provider and speed
  • [ ] Any additional fees (building maintenance, etc.)

Legal and practical:

  • [ ] Can you register your address (important for PESEL, visa)
  • [ ] Contract terms (duration, notice period)
  • [ ] Deposit amount and refund conditions
  • [ ] Rules (pets, visitors, smoking, etc.)
  • [ ] Who to contact for problems (landlord, building manager)

Pro tip: Take photos during the viewing. You'll forget details later, and photos help you compare options.

Questions to Ask the Landlord

Don't be shy – ask everything. Better to ask too many questions than discover problems later:

About the apartment:

  • How long has it been available?
  • Why is the previous tenant leaving?
  • Are there any problems I should know about?
  • What's included in the rent?
  • What are average utility costs?
  • Is internet included? What's the speed?
  • Can I register my address here? (Important for PESEL)
  • Are pets allowed? (If you have or want one)
  • What's the policy on visitors/overnight guests?

About the contract:

  • How long is the lease?
  • What's the notice period?
  • Can I sublet if I need to leave early?
  • What's the deposit? When do I get it back?
  • Are there any additional fees?
  • What happens if I need to break the lease?

About the landlord:

  • How do I contact you for problems?
  • How quickly do you respond to maintenance requests?
  • Will you be available if I have questions?
  • Can I see a copy of the contract before signing?

About the neighborhood:

  • What's the neighborhood like?
  • Is it safe?
  • Are there grocery stores nearby?
  • How's public transport?
  • Any construction or noise issues?

Reality check: A good landlord will answer these questions willingly. If they're evasive or defensive, that's a red flag.

Understanding Rental Contracts

What Should Be in the Contract

A proper rental contract (umowa najmu) should include:

Basic information:

  • Names and contact info of landlord and tenant
  • Address and description of the property
  • Duration of the lease (start and end date)
  • Rent amount and payment terms (monthly, when due)
  • Deposit amount and conditions for return

Financial details:

  • Rent amount (in PLN)
  • Deposit amount (usually 1-2 months' rent)
  • What's included (utilities, internet, etc.)
  • Payment method (bank transfer, cash, etc.)
  • Late payment penalties (if any)

Rights and responsibilities:

  • Tenant's rights (quiet enjoyment, privacy, etc.)
  • Tenant's responsibilities (pay rent, maintain property, etc.)
  • Landlord's responsibilities (maintenance, repairs, etc.)
  • Rules (pets, visitors, smoking, etc.)
  • Notice period for termination

Practical details:

  • Who pays for what (utilities, repairs, etc.)
  • How to report problems
  • Keys and access
  • Inventory of furniture/appliances (if furnished)

Pro tip: If the contract is only in Polish, ask for an English translation or use a translation service. You need to understand what you're signing.

Red Flags in Contracts

Watch out for these problematic clauses:

❌ Excessive deposit – more than 2 months' rent is unusual ❌ No refund conditions – deposit should be clearly refundable ❌ Unreasonable restrictions – no visitors, no cooking, etc. ❌ Landlord can enter anytime – should require notice (usually 24-48 hours) ❌ Tenant pays for everything – landlord should pay for major repairs ❌ Automatic renewal – make sure you understand renewal terms ❌ Penalties for early termination – should be reasonable ❌ Vague terms – everything should be clear and specific

Reality check: If you're unsure about the contract, ask someone who speaks Polish to review it, or consult with your university's legal office (many offer free consultations for students).

Deposits and Fees

Typical deposit (kaucja):

  • Usually 1 month's rent (sometimes 2 months)
  • Refundable when you move out (if no damage)
  • Should be clearly stated in contract
  • Usually returned within 14-30 days after move-out

Additional fees to watch for:

  • Agency fee – if using an agency (usually 1 month's rent, paid once)
  • Contract preparation fee – sometimes charged by agencies
  • Building maintenance fee – sometimes separate from rent
  • Utilities deposit – sometimes required by utility companies

Pro tip: Get everything in writing. Verbal agreements don't count when there's a dispute.

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

Unfortunately, rental scams exist. Here's how to protect yourself:

Classic Scam #1: "I'm Abroad, Send Money First"

The scam: Landlord claims to be abroad, can't show the place, but wants deposit/rent upfront. They'll send keys later (spoiler: they won't).

Red flags:

  • Can't show the place in person
  • Pressure to pay before viewing
  • Story about being abroad/overseas
  • Unusually good price
  • Poor English but "professional" listing

How to avoid:

  • Never pay before seeing the place (or at least doing a video call)
  • Never pay without a signed contract
  • If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
  • Verify the landlord's identity

Classic Scam #2: Fake Listings

The scam: Stolen photos, fake address, doesn't exist. You pay, show up, and... surprise, no apartment.

Red flags:

  • Photos look too perfect (stock photos)
  • Price doesn't match the area
  • Address doesn't exist or is wrong
  • Landlord avoids giving exact address
  • Reverse image search shows photos from other listings

How to avoid:

  • Reverse image search the photos (Google Images)
  • Verify the address on Google Maps
  • Ask for additional photos or video tour
  • Check if the listing appears on multiple sites with different contact info

Classic Scam #3: "Just Send Your Documents"

The scam: "Landlord" asks for copies of passport, visa, bank statements "to verify you're a real student." Then they use your info for identity theft.

Red flags:

  • Asks for documents before showing the place
  • Wants bank statements or credit card info
  • Pressure to send documents immediately
  • Vague about why they need specific documents

How to avoid:

  • Only share documents after you've seen the place and decided to rent
  • Never send bank statements or credit card info
  • Redact sensitive information if you must send documents
  • Verify the landlord's identity first

Classic Scam #4: The Bait and Switch

The scam: Show you a nice apartment, but when you arrive, it's different (or doesn't exist), and they have "another option" that's more expensive.

Red flags:

  • Listing doesn't match reality
  • "That one's taken, but I have another..."
  • Pressure to decide immediately
  • Much higher price than advertised

How to avoid:

  • Insist on seeing the exact apartment from the listing
  • Walk away if it doesn't match
  • Don't let them pressure you

How to Verify a Landlord

Before paying anything:

  1. Google the landlord's name and phone number – see if anything suspicious comes up
  2. Check if the property exists – Google Maps, street view
  3. Verify ownership – in Poland, you can check property ownership (requires Polish language skills or help)
  4. Ask for references – previous tenants, if possible
  5. Meet in person – if possible, meet the landlord before signing
  6. Use reputable platforms – Otodom, verified agencies are safer
  7. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, it probably is

Pro tip: If you're really unsure, consider using an agency for your first rental. Yes, you'll pay a fee, but you'll have more protection and peace of mind.

Costs Breakdown: What You'll Actually Pay

Let's talk numbers. Here's what accommodation actually costs:

Dormitory Costs

Monthly:

  • Rent: 400-800 PLN (€90-175)
  • Utilities: 0-150 PLN (sometimes included)
  • Internet: Usually included
  • Total: 400-950 PLN/month (€90-210)

One-time:

  • Deposit: 400-800 PLN (usually 1 month's rent)
  • Total initial cost: 800-1,600 PLN (€175-350)

Private Apartment Costs (by city)

Warsaw (most expensive):

Type Monthly Rent Deposit Utilities Total Monthly
Shared room 1,000-1,800 PLN 1,000-1,800 PLN 200-400 PLN 1,200-2,200 PLN
Studio 1,500-3,500 PLN 1,500-3,500 PLN 300-600 PLN 1,800-4,100 PLN
1-bedroom 2,000-4,500 PLN 2,000-4,500 PLN 400-700 PLN 2,400-5,200 PLN

Kraków, Wrocław, Gdańsk, Poznań (mid-range):

Type Monthly Rent Deposit Utilities Total Monthly
Shared room 800-1,500 PLN 800-1,500 PLN 150-300 PLN 950-1,800 PLN
Studio 1,200-2,500 PLN 1,200-2,500 PLN 250-500 PLN 1,450-3,000 PLN
1-bedroom 1,500-3,500 PLN 1,500-3,500 PLN 300-600 PLN 1,800-4,100 PLN

Smaller cities (cheaper):

Type Monthly Rent Deposit Utilities Total Monthly
Shared room 600-1,200 PLN 600-1,200 PLN 100-250 PLN 700-1,450 PLN
Studio 900-1,800 PLN 900-1,800 PLN 200-400 PLN 1,100-2,200 PLN
1-bedroom 1,200-2,500 PLN 1,200-2,500 PLN 250-500 PLN 1,450-3,000 PLN

Additional one-time costs:

  • Agency fee (if using): 1 month's rent
  • Internet setup: 0-200 PLN (sometimes included)
  • Furniture (if unfurnished): 2,000-5,000 PLN (or bring your own)
  • Moving costs: 200-500 PLN (if hiring movers)

Reality check: These are rough estimates. Prices vary by neighborhood, condition, and timing. Always budget extra for unexpected costs.

Dormitory vs. Private Apartment: The Ultimate Comparison

Still can't decide? Here's a side-by-side comparison:

Factor Dormitory Private Apartment
Cost 400-800 PLN/month 800-4,500 PLN/month
Privacy Low (shared spaces) High (your own space)
Social life High (built-in community) Lower (need to make effort)
Location Usually near campus Varies (your choice)
Furniture Included May need to provide
Utilities Usually included Separate bills
Internet Usually included May need to set up
Flexibility Semester-based Usually 1 year lease
Noise level Can be high Usually quieter
Rules More restrictions Fewer restrictions
Availability Limited More options
Best for Tight budget, want to meet people Need privacy, have budget

Pro tip: Many students start in dormitories (cheap, social) and move to private apartments later (more privacy, independence). There's no rule that says you have to choose one forever.

Step-by-Step: Your Housing Search Action Plan

Ready to start? Here's your game plan:

3-6 Months Before Arrival

Research phase:

  1. Decide your priorities – budget, location, privacy, etc.
  2. Research neighborhoods – where do students live? What's safe? What's affordable?
  3. Check university resources – housing office, international student office
  4. Join Facebook groups – get a feel for the market
  5. Set up alerts – on Otodom, Olx, etc.
  6. Apply for dormitory – even if you're not sure, apply as backup

2-3 Months Before Arrival

Active search phase:

  1. Start contacting landlords – respond to listings, ask questions
  2. Schedule viewings – if you're already in Poland, or video calls if abroad
  3. Compare options – make a spreadsheet with pros/cons, costs
  4. Check references – if possible, talk to current/previous tenants
  5. Review contracts – understand what you're signing

1 Month Before Arrival

Decision and preparation:

  1. Choose your place – make decision, don't wait too long
  2. Sign contract – read carefully, ask questions
  3. Pay deposit – get receipt, keep copies of everything
  4. Arrange move-in – date, time, how to get keys
  5. Plan your move – what to bring, what to buy there

Upon Arrival

Move-in checklist:

  1. Inspect the place – document any existing damage (photos!)
  2. Test everything – heating, water, internet, appliances
  3. Get keys and access codes – make sure everything works
  4. Set up utilities – if not included (internet, phone)
  5. Register your address – important for PESEL, visa
  6. Meet neighbors – if possible, introduce yourself
  7. Explore the area – find grocery stores, transport, etc.

Pro tip: Take photos of everything when you move in – any existing damage, the condition of furniture, etc. This protects you when you move out and want your deposit back.

Final Tips and Tricks

Money-saving tips:

  • Share an apartment – split costs with roommates
  • Live further from center – cheaper, but check transport costs
  • Negotiate – especially for longer leases or off-season
  • Look for "students welcome" – often better deals
  • Consider unfurnished – if you can bring/buy furniture cheaply
  • Ask about discounts – some landlords offer student discounts

Time-saving tips:

  • Use filters – on portals, filter by price, location, size
  • Set up alerts – get notified of new listings
  • Check daily – good deals go fast
  • Have documents ready – passport, acceptance letter, etc.
  • Be flexible – on move-in date, location, etc.

Stress-reducing tips:

  • Start early – don't wait until the last minute
  • Have a backup plan – dormitory, temporary accommodation
  • Ask for help – university, other students, expat groups
  • Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, walk away
  • Remember it's temporary – you can always move later

Reality check: Finding accommodation can be stressful, but millions of students do it every year. You'll find something. It might not be perfect, but it'll be yours, and that's what matters.

When Things Go Wrong: What to Do

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things don't work out. Here's what to do:

Problem: Landlord Issues

If landlord is unresponsive:

  • Document everything (emails, messages, calls)
  • Contact university housing office for advice
  • Check your contract for dispute resolution
  • Consider legal help (university may offer free consultations)

If landlord wants to evict you:

  • Check your contract – they usually need notice
  • Know your rights as a tenant
  • Get legal advice immediately
  • Document everything

Problem: Maintenance Issues

If something breaks:

  • Contact landlord immediately (in writing if possible)
  • Document the problem (photos, videos)
  • Check your contract – who's responsible for what?
  • If landlord doesn't respond, you may be able to deduct repair costs (check local laws)

Problem: Roommate Issues

If you have problematic roommates:

  • Try to talk it out first (communication is key)
  • Set boundaries and house rules
  • Document problems if serious
  • Consider mediation (university may help)
  • As last resort, consider moving

Problem: You Need to Break the Lease

If you need to leave early:

  • Check your contract for termination clause
  • Give proper notice (usually 1-3 months)
  • Try to find a replacement tenant (may help with costs)
  • Be prepared to lose deposit or pay penalty (check contract)
  • Get everything in writing

Reality check: Most problems can be solved with communication. Start there. Escalate only if necessary.

Conclusion: You've Got This

Finding accommodation in Poland as an international student might seem overwhelming, but here's the truth: you've got this. Thousands of students do it every year, and you will too. The key is starting early, being prepared, and trusting your instincts.

Remember: your first place doesn't have to be perfect. It just needs to be safe, affordable, and functional. You can always move later when you know the city better and have more options.

So take a deep breath, start your search, and remember – this is just the beginning of your Polish adventure. Your accommodation is important, but it's not everything. What matters most is the experience you'll have, the people you'll meet, and the memories you'll make.

Good luck with your search, and welcome to Poland! 🏠🇵🇱

Need more help? Check out our other guides on living in Poland, cost of living, and practical tips for international students.