What is a Tahliye Taahhütnamesi?
What is a Tahliye Taahhütnamesi?
A Tahliye Taahhütnamesi is a written document that the tenant voluntarily signs, confirming that they will vacate the rented property on a specified date — without the need for court proceedings.
⚖️ Legal Basis
According to Article 352/1 of the Turkish Code of Obligations (Türk Borçlar Kanunu No. 6098):
If the tenant commits in writing to vacate the premises by a certain date, the landlord has the right to demand the property be vacated after that date.
❗ Unfair Practices
Sometimes, landlords in Turkey use deceptive tactics:
— When signing the lease, they ask the tenant to sign a document called "Tahliye Taahhütnamesi," but:
• The date to vacate is not specified,
• Or the main lease agreement is not signed until the tenant signs this document,
• Then, at a convenient time (for example, to rent the property out at a higher price), they insert a backdated date and use the document to evict the tenant.
⚠️ Why is this dangerous?
— A document without a date is legally invalid,
— But if the landlord later inserts a date, they can use it through:
• The Enforcement Office (İcra Dairesi), or
• The Magistrate’s Court (Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi) to initiate eviction proceedings.
If the tenant does not have a copy of the signed document, proving forgery or coercion is extremely difficult.
✅ How to protect yourself:
— Never sign a Tahliye Taahhütnamesi without a date.
— Do not sign it on the same day as the lease agreement; it is better to sign it 1–2 months after moving in.
— Always keep copies of all signed documents.
If the landlord insists on signing it upon move-in, this is a warning sign. It is better to refuse.
* Important Reminder
Tenants in Turkey — be very careful when signing lease agreements and related documents.
Read all papers thoroughly, do not rush to sign, and always keep copies of all documents. Being vigilant will help you avoid many problems and protect your rights.
