Shock Shift in Housing: Fast-Track Evictions Without Courts from May 1

May 1 marks a major turning point in Greece’s rental landscape, as the government rolls out a fast-track eviction system that is already sparking political and social debate.

At the heart of the reform is a key institutional shift: eviction orders will no longer be issued by courts, but by certified lawyers. This is expected to significantly accelerate the process—while raising concerns about tenant protections.

What changes in practice

Until now, so-called “express evictions” applied only in cases of unpaid rent. Under the new framework:

• They also apply when a lease simply expires
• Orders are issued by lawyers, not judges
• The process is much faster (around 10 days)

In effect, a landlord can now move to evict a tenant even if rent is fully paid, as long as the lease term has ended.

Rent arrears: The 15-day window

For unpaid rent, the core procedure remains:

• A formal notice must be served 15 days in advance
• If the tenant pays within that period, eviction is avoided
• But not repeatedly—systematic late payment removes this protection

The crucial difference is that the process now unfolds without an initial court hearing, tightening timelines for response.

Lease expiration: The major shift

The most significant reform αφορά lease expirations:

• Landlords can seek eviction without any outstanding debt
• A 3-month prior notice is required
• After the eviction order is served, enforcement must wait another 2 months

Despite these buffers, the message is clear: Staying in a property after the lease ends is no longer effectively protected.

Right to defense: Still there, but under pressure

Tenants retain the right to:

• File an objection within 15 working days
• Challenge the process or prove rent has been paid

However, the speed of the system and lack of initial hearing create a tight and demanding legal window.

The harsh reality of enforcement

If eviction proceeds:

• A bailiff carries out the removal
• Police assistance may be requested
• Belongings are recorded and removed at the tenant’s expense
• In cases of debt, assets may even be auctioned

Political and social implications

The government frames the reform as a necessary step to streamline justice and protect property rights. Critics argue it:

• Weakens tenant protections
• Risks accelerating evictions amid a housing affordability crisis

With rents already high, the new rules could deepen insecurity, especially for vulnerable households.

A new balance of power

The reform sends a clear signal: Efficiency and speed now take precedence, shifting the balance toward landlords.

Whether this will stabilize the housing market or intensify social tensions over housing rights remains an open—and highly political—question.

Source: pagenews.gr