When a landlord decides to sell a rented property, one common question arises: Can the tenant be forced to show the property to potential buyers or new tenants? According to Turkish law, the tenant is expected to cooperate—but under certain conditions.
For the landlord to exercise this right, they must notify the tenant in advance. This notification can be verbal or written, but for legal clarity and proof, it’s strongly recommended to use a formal notice (ihtarname). If no prior notice is given, the tenant is not obligated to allow property visits.
If the tenant refuses to show the property even after being informed, the landlord can take the matter to the Civil Peace Court (Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi). Through legal channels, the court can assign specific days and hours when the property can be viewed by interested buyers.
The court considers both the tenant’s rights and the property’s conditions to determine a fair schedule. Once approved, the tenant is legally bound to allow access during those times. This balance ensures the sale process can move forward without violating the tenant’s rights.
Whether you’re planning to buy property in Istanbul or manage rental units in competitive markets like Maslak, understanding the legal responsibilities of both landlords and tenants can help prevent conflict and streamline transactions.
