10 Full Steps Finding Polish Accommodation Easier

Finding Polish accommodation for a student and an expatriate is as crucial as getting a Karta Pobytu Poland. Whether you stay in a hostel or a private apartment, understanding the essentials, such as size, amenities, and price, is paramount. This Jnd guide is for those moving to Poland and looking for accommodation. We’ll look at everything you need about apartment hunting in Poland.

Understanding the Apartment Landscape

Have you ever thought about living in an apartment in Poland? If so, you must explore an exciting new world of unique terms and layouts that may differ from your home country.

 

For starters, the layout and size. Apartments in Poland are generally more modest than in some other countries. A “2-room” apartment here means only two rooms. It does not include the kitchen or bathroom. So, if you want a separate living room, clarify this to the landlord.

You may also come across terms like “M2” or “M3” when looking for an apartment. It’s not a secret code, so don’t panic! “M” stands for “mieszkanie,” which means “apartment.” The number of rooms follows it. Thus, M2 is your comfortable home with one bedroom and a functional living room.

Have you ever heard of a ‘kawalerka‘? In this tiny space, you have a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom all rolled into one. Perfect for those wanting to travel alone! The name comes from the Polish word “kawaler,” which means single.

A Peek Inside Finding Polish Accommodation

First of all, the kitchen! In older homes, they may be tucked away in a separate room. It can be handy for keeping cooking smells out of the living area. While if you’re a fan of open floor plans where the kitchen flows into the living area, newer buildings or renovated apartments are your best bet.

One other thing that you might find interesting is that bathrooms in Poland are sometimes divided into two parts! There’s usually a small room for the toilet, a separate bathroom with a shower or bathtub, another sink, and often even a washing machine – which is super convenient!

Shared Polish apartments are popular, especially for those looking to keep costs low. You can find places where you have your room (or even bunk with roommates!). It is a great way to meet new people, split the rent, and save money. However, remember that shared Polish accommodations usually have separate bedrooms for each tenant, but you’ll share the kitchen and bathroom.

The Little Things That Make It Home

When settling into your new Polish apartment, you might wonder about the basics – the appliances that make daily life easy. The good news is that most flats have a refrigerator, a cooker (electric, induction, or gas, depending on the location), and an oven to bake everything you need. Washing machines are usually conveniently tucked away in the kitchen or bathroom so that laundry day won’t be a chore either.

Now, dishwashers are becoming increasingly popular in newer buildings, but they may not be a sure thing in older apartments. So it’s best to check with your landlord if sparkling clean dishes are essential to you. But don’t worry about missing out on your coffee in the morning! Polish homes tend to have electric kettles instead of coffeemakers. They’re perfect for boiling water for your daily cup.

Do you need to do a little appliance shopping? You may be able to find a dryer here and there, but they’re less common than you might be used to seeing. Instead, you’ll likely find a “suszarka,” a drying rack. Take advantage of the opportunity to air-dry your clothes and hang them wherever you can find space. It’s all part of the charm of the Polish home!

Stay warm and comfortable.

Are you planning a trip to Poland? You might be thinking of sunny days, but remember that Poland is also known for its cozy winters! While the coldest days may be behind us, some challenging surprises can still be. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about being cold inside. Most Polish apartments have central heating. So you can say goodbye to freezing nights. You’re going to be friendly and toasty during your stay.

Before you start dreaming of cozy nights in front of the fireplace, here’s a quick heads-up. First, ensuring your heating system is in good working order is always a good idea. One broken radiator can send your bills soaring faster than you can say, “Brrr!” Remember, if the heat is already on, opening a window is throwing money out of the window (literally!).

Most buildings in Poland have either city heating or central gas heating. Municipal heating is super convenient. The cost is included in your rent, making budgeting a breeze. Major gas allows you to control your desired temperature (although it may cost more in the winter). Just be aware that you can only turn the heat on in apartment buildings at the season’s official start.

 

Utilities and Staying Connected

Utilities, such as water, electricity, waste disposal, and internet, are super important for apartment living, and they can really impact your monthly budget. In Poland, it’s usually up to the tenant to set up these services, especially for long-term rentals. However, some landlords might take care of this for you, which is a nice bonus!

Additionally, we must remember the internet! In today’s world, having a reliable connection is an absolute must. The good news is that most places in Poland offer speedy and affordable WiFi. And if your landlord can handle the contract, you might even get a better deal, thanks to those sweet multi-apartment discounts. How cool is that?

Waste Management with a Twist

Recycling is a big deal in Poland, with surprise garbage bins often hidden under your sink – a clever way to maintain kitchen tidiness. Since 2020, recycling has become mandatory, as cities and local governments are committed to it. Proper recycling could even save you some cash on collection fees. However, negligence might lead to increased costs. So, it’s not just about saving the planet; it’s also about keeping your wallet happy!

Here’s the kicker: you can sort your waste at home or directly at the bins in your apartment building. However, if one person in the building disregards the rules, everyone might face fines and higher fees. That’s why everyone must pitch in and cooperate in keeping our environment clean and green. After all, teamwork makes the dream work!

Location, Location, Location

Now, let’s discuss location, a pivotal aspect in finding your ideal spot in Poland. For instance, Katowice offers a mix of homes, apartments, and modern buildings constantly sprouting up. Whether you desire a cosy room, a contemporary apartment, or a retro old house with a garden, Katowice has it all.

Here are some JnD insider tips to consider when choosing your location:

• City Center: If you crave the convenience of walking to work, the city centre is ideal. However, noise from restaurants and nightlife can be a downside. Parking is also a challenge, with older buildings often needing designated spots.
• Public Transport: Katowice’s central location means excellent public transportation options. Buses and trams run 24/7, making it easy to explore the city. However, if you are a light sleeper, there might be better options than living right next to a tram line.
• Cost and Space: City centre flats come at a premium. You will pay more for less space compared to apartments outside the centre.
• Elevators: Old buildings often lack elevators, so be prepared for some stair climbing if you choose a top-floor apartment.

Pricing and Options

You can fit your budget when looking for an apartment in Katowice! The cost of renting an apartment in Katowice can vary depending on what you’re looking for, but in general, it’s more affordable than in other major Polish cities. To give you an idea, here’s a quick guide:

Sharing an apartment is a great deal to save money, with prices ranging from PLN 600 – PLN 1000 per month for a basic room to PLN 800 – PLN 1200 for a nicer one. Yet, this depends on where the apartment is located and how well-furnished (think fancy vs. essential) the place is.

Studio apartments are an excellent option for solo adventurers. You will expect to spend 1100 to 1500 zloty per month for a smaller apartment and a bit more (about 1500+ zloty) for a more luxurious one. However, you need to add utilities to your rent.

One-room apartments offer more space. Its prices range from 1400-2000 PLN for a smaller one to over 2800 PLN for a more prominent, fancier place. Again, utilities are usually an extra cost.

Sharing a two-bedroom apartment is perfect for a group of people or a couple, and its prices can start at around 2500 PLN per month for a basic apartment. However, prices can skyrocket to 5000 PLN for a luxurious apartment, and remember that utilities are usually added to rent as well.

Another option is to stay in a student residence, especially if you’re on a tight budget. This option mainly costs you up to 1500 PLN monthly.

Keep in mind that these are just average prices! The actual cost of the apartment you want may vary depending on size, location, and amenities. But this should give you a good idea of where to start looking!

Where to look for apartment in Poland?

Explore university residences and online platforms like OLX.pl and Otodom.pl, as well as Airbnb and Facebook marketplace/groups. Some employers may offer housing options for added convenience. Here’s the scoop:

• University Residences: If you’re a student, check out university dormitories. Places like the University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University offer cosy dorms. In cities like Katowice, the University of Silesia has dorms close to campus, with rents starting from 650 PLN per month.
• Online Platforms: if you prefer your own space, try online platforms like OLX.pl, Otodom.pl, and Airbnb. OLX.pl connects you with landlords, while Otodom.pl is great for short-term stays. Just remember, some landlords might prefer Polish speakers, so having a friend who speaks Polish could be handy.
• Facebook: It is also a good place to look! Marketplaces and groups can be useful, but be cautious of scams. Stick to reputable groups, double-check information, and only pay something upfront after seeing the apartment and signing a proper contract.
• Employer-provided housing: Some employers offer housing options, which can be convenient, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of searching on your own. However, be aware that you might share a space with others depending on the job.

What are the key factors to consider when searching for an apartment in Poland?

When looking for an apartment in Poland, it is important to consider factors such as the apartment layout, amenities, heating system, utility arrangements, waste management, neighbourhood location, price and where to look for available listings. With these considerations in mind, you can find the perfect place to make your home in Poland. Remember to keep an open mind, accept the unique characteristics of your new surroundings, and be prepared to dive into all the beauty and charm that Poland has to offer! And don’t forget to apply for karta pobytu to stay legally and work in Poland.