Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Elliniko

About Landlord & Tenant Law in Elliniko, Greece

Landlord and tenant relationships in Elliniko are governed by national Greek law with local practice shaped by courts and municipal rules in the Attica region. The foundation is the Greek Civil Code and associated legislation and case law that regulate leases, rights and obligations of parties, security deposits, maintenance duties, termination rules and enforcement of judgments. Whether you rent a small apartment, a holiday flat near the coast, or commercial premises, the same broad legal principles apply, while differences arise between short-term lets, residential leases and commercial contracts.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice is useful whenever rights, money or occupancy are in dispute, or when a lease or transaction has long-term consequences. Common reasons to consult a lawyer include disputes over unpaid rent or late payments, eviction threats, problems recovering a security deposit, disagreements about repairs and maintenance, unclear contract terms, suspected illegal subletting, rent increases or renewal disputes in commercial leases, and complex matters such as bankruptcy of a landlord or tenant. A lawyer can help draft or review contracts to reduce future risks, advise on tax compliance for rental income, represent you in court, and guide you through mediation or enforcement procedures.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal elements that tend to be relevant in Elliniko and the rest of Greece include the following.

- Types of leases: Residential and commercial leases are treated differently in practice. Commercial leases often involve longer-term relationships and different expectations about renewal and compensation for improvements. Short-term tourist rentals are also regulated and must comply with tax and registration rules.

- Form and proof: Written leases are strongly recommended. While some verbal agreements can be enforceable, a written contract provides clear proof of terms such as rent, duration, deposit and utilities allocation.

- Duration and termination: Fixed-term contracts generally bind the parties for the agreed period. Termination and notice rules depend on the contract and legal category of the lease. Early termination without agreement can lead to damages claims. Notice periods and conditions for termination may be influenced by statutory provisions and court practice.

- Security deposits and guarantees: Security deposits are commonly used to secure obligations. The size, handling and return of deposits should be specified in the lease. Disputes over deposit deductions are a frequent cause of litigation.

- Repairs and maintenance: Landlords are typically responsible for structural and major repairs, while tenants handle routine upkeep and minor maintenance. The lease should specify responsibilities to avoid disagreements.

- Rent and rent increases: The contract sets the rent and any permitted increases. For commercial leases, statutory protections or customary practices can limit sudden increases. For residential leases, rent increases should follow the contract and applicable law.

- Eviction and enforcement: If a tenant fails to pay rent or breaches the contract, landlords usually must use court procedures to obtain an eviction order. Enforcement can take time and may require additional legal steps for execution of judgments.

- Tax and registration: Income from rent must be declared to the Greek tax authorities. Landlords should report rental income and issue receipts where appropriate. Short-term rentals have additional registration and tax reporting obligations.

- Condominium and municipal rules: If the property is in a condominium building or subject to municipal regulations, rules on common expenses, noise, alterations and building use also matter and can give rise to disputes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a written lease in Elliniko?

Written leases are not always legally required for short agreements, but they are highly recommended. A written contract clarifies rent, duration, deposit, repair obligations and termination rules, and it is the best evidence if a dispute goes to court.

How much deposit can a landlord ask for?

There is no single statutory cap that always applies, but commonly landlords ask for a deposit equal to one to three months' rent. The specific amount should be stated in the lease, together with the conditions for its return and permitted deductions.

What happens if a tenant does not pay rent?

If rent is not paid, the landlord can demand payment and may start court proceedings for eviction and recovery of owed rent. In many cases the landlord must obtain a court order before evicting a tenant. Because court processes can take time, legal advice early in the process helps protect rights and may enable a negotiated resolution.

Can a landlord increase the rent during the lease?

Whether a landlord can increase rent during the lease depends on the contract terms and the legal classification of the lease. Contractual clauses that allow increases should be clear. If there is no clause permitting an increase, raising rent before the contract ends is generally not permitted.

Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?

Major structural repairs and defects that affect the habitability of the property are typically the landlord's responsibility. Tenants normally handle routine cleaning and minor upkeep. The lease should specify maintenance obligations to reduce uncertainty.

Can a tenant sublet the property?

Subletting is usually allowed only if the lease permits it or the landlord gives consent. Entering a sublease without permission can be a breach of contract and may lead to termination or damages claims.

How do I resolve a deposit dispute at the end of the lease?

Try to resolve the dispute informally by documenting the condition of the property with photos, invoices for repairs, and written communications. If that fails, you can seek mediation or bring a claim in the competent civil court to recover the deposit or challenge excessive deductions.

Are there protections for tenants facing eviction?

Tenants have procedural protections and can present defenses in court. Courts consider contractual terms and circumstances before ordering eviction. Certain vulnerable tenants may qualify for additional protections under social welfare programs. Seek legal advice promptly if you receive an eviction notice.

Do I need to declare rental income for tax purposes?

Yes. Landlords must declare rental income to the Greek tax authorities and pay the applicable taxes. There are also rules for short-term tourist rentals that require specific reporting and compliance. Consult a tax advisor for details and to ensure correct filings.

What should I bring to a first meeting with a landlord-tenant lawyer?

Bring the lease, any written communications between the parties, receipts for rent or repairs, photographs of the property condition, ID, and any notices or legal documents received. Clear documentation helps the lawyer assess your case and suggest next steps.

Additional Resources

- Elliniko-Argyroupoli Municipality - for local rules, building permits and municipal services that may affect a property.

- Citizen Service Centers - KEP - for administrative assistance with documents and directions to relevant public offices.

- Athens Bar Association - for information about licensed lawyers in the Attica region and professional regulations.

- Legal Aid services - for people who qualify for free or reduced-fee legal assistance under national programs.

- Independent Authority for Public Revenue - AADE - for tax guidance related to rental income and reporting obligations.

- Hellenic Consumer Ombudsman - for certain consumer-related disputes that may touch on tenancy services.

- Local courts and enforcement offices - for filing claims, obtaining judgments and arranging enforcement of court orders.

Next Steps

1. Gather all documents - collect the lease, payment records, receipts, correspondence, photos and any notices you have received. Accurate records are essential.

2. Clarify your goal - determine whether you want to stay, terminate the lease, recover money, stop an eviction or enforce the lease. The desired outcome affects the legal strategy.

3. Seek an initial consultation - contact a lawyer experienced in landlord and tenant law in Attica or the Athens Bar Association area. Ask about fees, likely timelines and possible outcomes.

4. Consider negotiation or mediation - many disputes are resolved faster and with less cost through negotiation or mediation than through litigation. A lawyer can represent you at the table or advise you when to accept an offer.

5. Prepare for court if necessary - if negotiation fails, your lawyer will prepare the necessary filings, advise on evidence, and represent you in court.

6. Comply with tax and administrative obligations - landlords should ensure rental income is declared and any local registration requirements are met to avoid later penalties.

7. Protect your interests going forward - if you are entering a new lease, have a lawyer review the contract, confirm who pays utilities and common expenses, and include clear clauses on deposits, repairs and termination.

If you need legal assistance in Elliniko, start by documenting your situation and arranging a consultation with a lawyer who handles landlord and tenant matters in the Attica area. Early legal advice can clarify rights, avoid costly mistakes and increase the chance of a satisfactory resolution.