Imagine it’s a cold winter evening in Istanbul, and the kombi (central heating boiler) in your rented apartment suddenly stops working. A moment of panic sets in. Who should you call for the repair? And more importantly, who is financially responsible for the bill? This is a common and critical question for countless tenants and landlords across Turkey. Understanding your rights and obligations is key to a stress-free tenancy.
According to the Turkish Code of Obligations (Türk Borçlar Kanunu), the fundamental responsibility lies with the landlord to deliver the rented property in a condition suitable for its intended use and to maintain it in this condition throughout the lease. This means that major, structural failures related to the property’s essential fixtures—often referred to as “demirbaş”—are legally the landlord’s responsibility to repair. These fixtures include core systems like the water and electrical installations, the central heating unit (kombi), door and window mechanisms, sinks, and other essential built-in components that are integral to the property’s usability.
However, the law also draws a clear line for damages caused by the tenant. Any malfunction or breakage resulting from improper or negligent use by the tenant falls squarely on their shoulders. For instance, if a washing machine provided by the landlord breaks down due to being consistently overloaded, or a door lock is broken by being forced, the tenant is liable for the repair costs. This distinction separates normal wear and tear from direct user-induced damage.
Furthermore, tenants are generally expected to handle minor, inexpensive routine maintenance. Think of tasks like replacing a lightbulb or tightening a loose cabinet handle. High-cost, structural faults that affect the core usability of the home, such as a major plumbing leak or a complete boiler failure, remain the landlord’s obligation.
To prevent misunderstandings and potential disputes, the most powerful tool for both parties is the rental contract. It is highly recommended to attach a detailed “fixture list” (demirbaş listesi) to the lease agreement. This list should itemize all fixtures and major appliances provided with the property, noting their condition at the start of the tenancy. This simple document provides absolute clarity, ensuring that both the landlord and tenant know who is responsible when a repair is needed, fostering a transparent and positive rental relationship.
