How to File a Rent Determination Lawsuit in Turkey? 2026

How to File a Rent Determination Lawsuit in Turkey? 2026 – (What Is a Rent Determination and Adjustment Case? Rent Lawyer and Consultancy in Turkey – 2026 Guide)

In Turkey, rental agreements are legally protected to ensure fairness for both landlords and tenants. However, due to economic fluctuations, inflation, and changes in market conditions, rental prices may lose their balance over time.

In such cases, the legal solution is to file a rent determination lawsuit.

A rent determination case is regulated under Article 344 of the Turkish Code of Obligations (Türk Borçlar Kanunu) and allows the court to adjust or update rent to a fair market level. This process protects the rights of both the landlord and the tenant, maintaining economic balance and fairness.

1. What Is a Rent Determination Lawsuit?

A rent determination lawsuit is a legal action filed by either the landlord or the tenant—most commonly the landlord—requesting that the current rent be re-evaluated according to market conditions.

In this lawsuit, the court examines: Comparable rental values (market rates), Consumer Price Index (CPI/TÜFE) changes, Economic and regional conditions, and – The terms of the rental contract.

The court then determines a fair rent amount that reflects current conditions. The main purpose is to balance the financial interests of both parties — preventing excessive rent for tenants and unfair loss for landlords.

2. When Can a Rent Determination or Adjustment Case Be Filed?

Rent Determination Case: Normally, a rent determination case can be filed after the fifth year of the rental contract. If the contract includes a CPI-based rent increase clause, rent can only be increased according to that rate before the five-year period ends.

Rent Adjustment Case: In exceptional situations—such as extreme inflation, currency fluctuation, or economic crisis—the landlord or tenant may file a rent adjustment case before the five-year term. This allows the court to adjust rent according to the principle of fairness (hakkaniyet).

The court evaluates all financial factors and establishes an equitable rent amount that aligns with the current economy.

3. How to File a Rent Determination Lawsuit in Turkey

Rent determination lawsuits are filed at the Civil Court of Peace (Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi). Having a written rental agreement makes the process faster and easier.

Required Documents: Original or notarized copy of the rental agreement, Property title deed or address information, Current rent amount and payment details, Comparable rental examples in the same area, Consumer Price Index (CPI/TÜFE) data.

If necessary, the court appoints an expert witness (real estate valuer).

The expert inspects the property, examines local rental values, and prepares a report. Based on this report and the evidence presented, the judge determines the new rent amount.

4. When Does the New Rent Apply?

The rent determined by the court usually takes effect from the date of the judgment.

However, in certain cases, it may also apply retroactively from the beginning of the rental year. This allows landlords to claim the updated amount from the relevant rental period.

Court of Cassation (Yargıtay) 3rd Civil Chamber, Decision No. 2024/1125 E., 2025/3679 K.: “In rent determination cases, the new rent must be established according to the economic conditions prevailing at the time the lawsuit is filed, ensuring fairness between the parties.”

5. Rent Lawyer and Legal Consultancy in Turkey

Rent determination and adjustment cases are technical legal processes that require experience in real estate and contract law. Therefore, both landlords and tenants should seek advice from an experienced rental lawyer (kira avukatı) or legal consultant.

A lawyer can: Conduct a market rent analysis, Collect and prepare all necessary documents.

Represent the client during expert evaluations and hearings, Protect the client’s financial interests throughout the case.

In many cases, mediation is required before filing the lawsuit. Having professional representation during mediation increases the likelihood of reaching a mutual settlement without court intervention. How to File a Rent Determination Lawsuit in Turkey?

6. How to File a Rent Determination Lawsuit in Turkey?

Rent Determination Ensures Legal and Economic Balance. The rent determination lawsuit is a key legal mechanism in Turkey that ensures balance and fairness between tenants and landlords.

It prevents disputes, maintains long-term contracts, and keeps rent consistent with real market conditions.

For the best results, individuals should work with a lawyer specialized in rent law who understands both the legal framework and current market realities.

Professional consultancy not only speeds up the process but also minimizes the risk of financial or procedural errors. How to File a Rent Determination Lawsuit in Turkey?