New 30-Year Commercial Leases

From 1 January 2009, businesses can enter into leases for fixed terms of up to 30 years.

This change to the Civil Code, which has now been signed by the President, will enable businesses to conclude leases for fixed terms exceeding 10 years.

Previously, fixed term leases of more than 10 years were treated as being for an indefinite period once the initial 10-year period had elapsed. Landlords wishing to grant leasehold terms of more than 10 years had to execute "extension options" or grant a series of consecutive leases, each to a different party within the same group.

This practice is now likely to cease with the introduction of the 30-year maximum term.

Law: amendment to the Polish Civil Code