A conto vs fixed amount for tenants in Denmark
Utilities & statements (heat, water, electricity; on-account vs flat)
3 min read
·
published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Denmark you will often encounter the terms a conto and fixed amount in connection with utility and shared costs. A conto is an estimate of future expenses, while a fixed amount is a fixed monthly charge regardless of actual consumption. It can be difficult to understand how heating, water and electricity are calculated, who pays, and what rights you have regarding settlement and final accounting. This guide explains the differences, when costs may be charged as a conto or fixed amount, how to read the accounts, and what steps you can take if you believe a bill is unfair. The goal is to give practical advice to tenants.
What do a conto and fixed amount mean?
A conto typically means a prepayment based on an estimate of future consumption. A fixed amount is a fixed monthly charge that can cover both consumption and shared costs. After a period, the landlord will usually prepare a final account showing whether the a conto payments match actual consumption for the period [1].
In Denmark both a conto and fixed amounts can appear in rental contracts.
How are heating, water and electricity settled?
Settlement can be based on meter readings or distribution keys in the accounts. A conto payments are collected and differences are reconciled in the final account. As a tenant you should know how meter readings are recorded and which distribution key is used so you can assess whether the charge seems reasonable.
- A conto payments are prepayments based on estimated consumption.
- A fixed amount is a steady monthly charge that does not follow actual consumption.
- The final account shows the difference between a conto and actual consumption.
- Check meters and faults in heating and water installations to avoid unreasonable claims.
Keep meter readings and receipts continuously so you can document consumption.
What can you do as a tenant?
If you are uncertain about a charge, start by collecting documentation: the lease, receipts and meter readings. Request a detailed written account from the landlord and compare a conto payments with the final account. You can get guidance about your rights and procedures on Borger.dk or contact the Rent Tribunal for assistance in disputes [2][3].
- Keep an ongoing record of your receipts and meter readings.
- Request a detailed account from the landlord in writing.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal or Borger.dk for guidance if you cannot agree.
Respond to requests and deadlines quickly to preserve your rights.
FAQ
- Can a landlord require a conto without an account?
- A landlord can charge a conto, but should normally prepare a final account where any excess is refunded or shortages are claimed. See applicable legislation for details [1].
- What should I do if the account seems wrong?
- Ask for documentation, keep your own meter readings and receipts, and contact the Rent Tribunal if you remain in disagreement [3].
- When is a fixed amount reasonable?
- A fixed amount can be reasonable for predictable shared costs, but it must be clearly agreed in the lease and you should be able to see the basis on request.
How to
- Check your lease for wording about a conto and fixed amounts.
- Record meter readings at move-in and move-out and keep regular readings.
- Write to the landlord requesting a detailed account if you are unsure.
- Gather and organize receipts, photos of meters and correspondence.
- Seek guidance from the Rent Tribunal or consider court action if disagreement persists.
Key takeaways
- A conto is an estimate; fixed amounts are steady charges.
- Keep documentation and meter readings to support your case.
- Request accounts in writing and contact the Rent Tribunal when needed.
