Being a Landlord in Turkey: 2025 Guide

In Turkey, the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants are regulated under the Turkish Code of Obligations No. 6098 and related legislation. This guide explains in detail the legal rights of both parties during the rental process and outlines the steps that can be taken in case of disputes.

Landlord Rights and Obligations

1. Landlord Rights

1.1 Right to Receive Rent on Time

A landlord has the right to demand full and timely rent payments in accordance with the rental agreement. If the tenant delays payment:

• The landlord can issue a formal notice via a notary requesting payment.
• If the rent is still unpaid, legal enforcement proceedings may be initiated.
• If the tenant is late for two or more rental periods, an eviction lawsuit may be filed.

1.2 Right to Request a Security Deposit

Landlords may request a deposit equal to 1 to 3 months' rent. The deposit:

• Must be refunded in full if the tenant returns the property without damage.
• Can be held in a bank account and used upon the tenant's departure if needed.

1.3 Right to Evict the Tenant

A landlord may seek to evict a tenant in the following situations:

• Non-payment of rent: A formal notice is sent, and if unpaid, eviction proceedings may follow.
• Eviction commitment: If the tenant has signed a written commitment to vacate, they can be evicted on the agreed date.
• Personal or family need: If the landlord or a first-degree relative needs the property, they may request eviction with proof of necessity.
• Major renovation or reconstruction: The tenant can be evicted if the property requires significant repairs or rebuilding.

1.4 Right to Increase Rent

As of 2025, rental increases are limited to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate. A landlord:

• Can increase the rent upon annual contract renewal, not exceeding the CPI rate.
• Any increase above CPI without tenant agreement can be deemed invalid by the courts.

2. Landlord Obligations

2.1 Delivering a Habitable Property

The landlord must ensure the property is delivered in livable and legally compliant condition.

• Basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, and natural gas must be operational.
• If the property is delivered with defects outside the contract, the tenant can cancel the lease or demand repairs.

2.2 Performing Major Repairs and Maintenance

The landlord is responsible for:

• Main utility systems (water, electricity, gas lines)
• Building exterior and roof repairs
• Boiler or central heating system malfunctions

Minor maintenance due to regular use (painting, light bulbs, switches, etc.) is expected to be handled by the tenant.

2.3 Paying Taxes

Landlords must:

• Declare rental income. For 2025, the tax exemption threshold is 33,000 TL. If rental income exceeds this amount, progressive tax rates apply.
• Pay property tax annually to the municipality.
• Failure to declare taxes may result in penalties if detected by tax authorities.

Conclusion

As of 2025, tenant and landlord rights in Turkey are regulated within a balanced legal framework.

• Tenants must pay rent on time and comply with the lease terms.
• Landlords must provide habitable housing and fulfill their tax obligations.

For more detailed legal guidance or support regarding rental procedures in Turkey, feel free to contact us.