How to File a Rent Case in Turkey? 2026

How to File a Rent Case in Turkey? (Types of Rental Lawsuits, Legal Process, Filing and Following Through a Lawyer – 2026 Legal Guide)

In recent years, rising rent prices and increasing disputes between landlords and tenants have made rental lawsuits one of the most common legal actions in Turkey.

Disagreements usually arise from issues such as non-payment of rent, eviction requests, rental price disputes, or breach of the lease contract.

So, how can a rent case be filed in Turkey, what types of cases exist, and how is the process handled through a lawyer?

Here is a clear, step-by-step explanation based on the 2026 Turkish legal framework.

1. What Is a Rental Lawsuit?

A rental lawsuit is a civil action filed when one of the parties to a lease agreement violates their rights or obligations.

These cases are governed by both the Turkish Code of Obligations (TCO) and the Code of Civil Procedure (CCP).

Legal Basis: Turkish Code of Obligations (TCO) Articles 299–356 Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) Articles 2–6

2. Types of Rental Lawsuits in Turkey

Rental cases generally fall into four main categories:

Rent Determination Lawsuit: Filed when the landlord wants the rent price to be adjusted according to current market conditions, or when the tenant seeks to prevent an excessive increase.

Such cases are common after the fifth year of a lease agreement.

The court appoints an expert to assess comparable market rents and determine the fair rental value.

Eviction Lawsuit: An eviction case is filed when the tenant refuses to vacate the property. The most common reasons include:

Non-payment of rent,

A written eviction undertaking by the tenant,

The landlord or a close relative’s housing need,

Expiration of the lease term,

Breach of contract by the tenant.

Eviction lawsuits are filed before the Civil Court of Peace (Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi).

Rent Collection and Enforcement Lawsuit: If the tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord may initiate non-judicial enforcement proceedings.If the tenant does not object, the enforcement becomes final. If the tenant objects, the landlord must file a lawsuit for removal of the objection or an eviction case.

Rent Adjustment (Adaptation) Lawsuit: If economic circumstances drastically change and make the rent unfair, either party may request the adaptation of the lease to new conditions through the court.

3. How to File a Rent Case in Turkey

Step 1: Apply for Mediation: Since September 1, 2023, mediation has been mandatory in rental disputes. The parties must first apply to the mediation office at the courthouse. If mediation fails, a lawsuit can be filed.

Step 2: Prepare the Petition of Claim: The petition should include:

The names and addresses of both parties,

Date and details of the lease contract,

Subject of the dispute (e.g., unpaid rent, eviction, rent adjustment),

Evidence (lease agreement, bank receipts, notices, witness statements), Requests to the court (e.g., “eviction of the tenant” or “determination of the rent”).

Step 3: File the Lawsuit: Submit the petition to the Civil Court of Peace and pay the required court fees. The case is officially registered and assigned a file number.

Step 4: Court Proceedings: The court hears both parties, examines the evidence, and may appoint an expert. After evaluating the facts, the judge issues a decision — such as determining the rent amount, ordering eviction, or granting rent collection.

4. Following the Case Through a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer ensures that the legal process is carried out properly and that no procedural rights are lost.

A lawyer will: Review the lease and identify legal grounds, Collect evidence and prepare the mediation application, Draft and file the petition, Represent the client in hearings, Enforce the court decision through execution offices if necessary.

To authorize a lawyer, a power of attorney must be issued through a notary public.

5. How Long Does a Rental Case Take in Turkey?

Rental cases typically take 6 to 12 months to conclude.

However, the duration may vary depending on: The complexity of the dispute, Expert reports, Number of hearings, Appeals or objections.

If the parties reach an agreement during mediation, the case does not proceed to court.

Court of Cassation, 6th Civil Chamber, Decision No. 2024/2874 E., 2025/912 K.: “In cases where the tenant is in default for unpaid rent, the court must issue an eviction decision if the default is proven.”

6. Competent Court for Rental Cases – How to File a Rent Case in Turkey? 2026

All rental lawsuits in Turkey are heard by the Civil Court of Peace (Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi).

The competent venue is the court located where the leased property is situated.

This rule is mandatory and cannot be changed by agreement between the parties.

7. Required Documents for Filing a Rent Case

Lease agreement (written or proven through witnesses), Bank receipts for unpaid rents, Official notices or mediation records, Title deed or proof of ownership, ID or passport copy.

8. Conclusion: Rental Lawsuits Are the Legal Path to Protect Rights

Lease contracts are built on mutual trust, but economic fluctuations or contractual breaches often lead to legal disputes.

In Turkey, filing a rental lawsuit requires first applying for mediation and, if unresolved, filing a case before the Civil Court of Peace.

With the help of a lawyer, the process becomes faster and more efficient.

How to File a Rent Case in Turkey? 2026

Rental disputes must first go through mediation,

The competent court is the Civil Court of Peace,

The lawsuit must be supported by a valid lease and evidence,

The average duration is 6–12 months, Lawyer representation ensures proper follow-up and protection of rights. How to File a Rent Case in Turkey?