A conto vs Fixed Amount: Tenant Utility Bills Denmark
Utilities & statements (heat, water, electricity; on-account vs flat)
2 min read
·
published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Denmark, the terms a conto and fixed amount for heating, water and electricity can feel confusing. This guide explains plainly what the difference is, how calculations typically work, and which documents you should request from your landlord. You get concrete advice on documentation, receipts and consumption statements, what to do if amounts seem unreasonable, and how to complain to the rent tribunal or seek legal guidance. The text is aimed at people in private rentals and social housing and helps you understand your rights and practical steps so you can act effectively without a legal background. Read on for step-by-step guidance and sample letters.
What do a conto and fixed amount mean?
The terms refer to two ways a landlord can collect prepayments or fixed sums for heating and other consumption costs. A conto is an estimate based on expected consumption, while a fixed amount is a fixed monthly rate that is not adjusted directly based on actual consumption. According to the Rent Act, statements must be clear and documented [1].
Tenants often have the right to detailed consumption statements from the landlord.
How do you check a consumption statement?
Follow a simple checklist to ensure the statement is correct and transparent.
- Compare a conto charges with actual receipts and meter readings.
- Check meter readings and note dates for consumption.
- Request documentation, specifications and previous statements from the landlord.
- Check whether the expense is regulated in the tenancy contract.
Store all receipts, readings and correspondence electronically.
What can you do if the amount seems wrong?
Always start with written communication and collect evidence so you have a clear basis for any complaint.
- Write to the landlord and request a detailed statement.
- Collect evidence: photos, receipts and meter readings.
- Set a deadline for a response and mention that you can complain to the rent tribunal [2].
- If nothing helps, submit a formal complaint to the rent tribunal or consider legal assistance.
Respond or complain within deadlines to preserve your rights.
FAQ
- Who pays the consumption — tenant or landlord?
- It depends on the tenancy agreement and legislation; typically the tenant pays their own consumption, but the landlord must be able to document charges.
- Can the landlord require a fixed amount without an accounting?
- The landlord can agree fixed amounts, but the tenant has the right to insight into calculations and previous statements, and disputes can be brought to the rent tribunal.
- How do I complain about incorrect a conto charges?
- Contact the landlord in writing, gather documentation, and if disagreement continues, file a complaint with the rent tribunal.
How-To
- Write a short written request to the landlord asking for a detailed statement.
- Gather documentation: receipts, meter readings and photos.
- Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 14 days) for the landlord to respond.
- If no solution: submit a complaint to the rent tribunal with copies of correspondence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Retsinformation - Rent Act and standard forms
- Rent Tribunals - how to complain
- Borger.dk - guidance for tenants
