How to Evict a Tenant: Legal Eviction Routes in Turkey

Short answer: You cannot remove a tenant yourself; changing the locks, throwing out belongings or cutting off electricity is unlawful. The Turkish Code of Obligations (TBK) allows eviction in specific cases, and each case has its own conditions and deadlines.

Which route in which situation?

1. If rent is not paid: A written notice gives at least 30 days to pay (TBK art. 315). If the period expires, the contract can be terminated and eviction requested through enforcement proceedings or the court. For details, see our article what to do if rent is not paid.
2. If there is an eviction undertaking: If the tenant, after the tenancy began, gave a written undertaking to leave on a specific date, enforcement proceedings or a lawsuit must be started within 1 month from that date (TBK art. 352/1).
3. If the landlord or close relatives need the home: A genuine and sincere need is required for the landlord, spouse, descendants, ascendants or persons the landlord is obliged to support (TBK art. 350).
4. If the tenancy has lasted more than 10 years: After ten renewal years, termination without giving a reason is possible; notice must be given at least 3 months before the end of each renewal year (TBK art. 347).
5. If there are two justified warnings: If two justified warnings were sent to the tenant within one rental year or period, a lawsuit can be filed at the end of the term (TBK art. 352/2).
6. If a new owner has acquired the home: The new owner has a limited, short-term right for their own need (TBK art. 351).

Common mistakes

• Missing the deadline. The 1-month period for an eviction undertaking and the 3-month notice for the 10-year rule can cost you the right.
• Giving notice orally. A notarised warning or registered mail with return receipt is the safest written proof.
• Unlawful pressure. Locking the home or threatening the tenant can expose the landlord to civil and criminal liability.

Frequently asked questions

What if the tenant does not leave?

If the court or enforcement office issues an eviction order, it is carried out through enforcement. The tenant's own consent to leave is not required.

How long does an eviction case take?

It depends on the court's workload and the tenant's objection. It would not be right to promise a fixed time.

Is a lawyer mandatory?

No, but because the deadlines are forfeiture periods, getting legal support at the first step is safer.

Setting up the contract correctly from the start prevents most of these problems; see our article how a rental contract is prepared.

Sources: mevzuat.gov.tr · adalet.gov.tr

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice; legislation and practice may change. Compiled as of October 2026. For your specific case, contact us or consult a lawyer.