Installment agreement for eviction — tenant in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, it can be confusing if your landlord proposes an installment agreement to avoid eviction. This article explains in plain language what an installment agreement involves, the rights and duties you as a tenant have, and the deadlines and documents often involved in the process. We also cover how a case can end up in the enforcement court, what you can request from the landlord, and when it is relevant to contact the rent tribunal or seek advice. The goal is to give you concrete action steps so you can make informed choices and protect your rights in a difficult situation.
What is an installment agreement?
An installment agreement is an arrangement to pay overdue rent over time instead of immediately. For tenants in Denmark, such an agreement can prevent the case from going to the enforcement court, but it does not always change the right to demand payment or the right to eviction under the Tenancy Act [1]. Installment agreements can be voluntary or proposed by the landlord as an alternative to eviction.
What should you check before accepting?
- Amount and payment schedule (rent): check how much you must pay and over which period.
- Deadlines and consequences (deadline): get clear payment dates and what happens on default.
- Documentation (evidence): keep receipts, messages and emails about the agreement and prior payments.
- Written agreement (notice): require that the installment plan is put in writing and signed by both parties.
What does an agreement mean for your right to the home?
Even if an installment agreement is made, the landlord may still be able to demand payment or start the eviction process if the agreement is breached. It is important to understand exactly which conditions apply, and whether the agreement includes clauses on reminder fees or other costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I refuse an installment agreement and still stay?
- Yes, you can refuse an offer of an installment agreement, but this does not change the debt issue; the landlord may choose to go to the enforcement court to carry out eviction or collect arrears.
- Where can I complain if I think the agreement is unfair?
- You can contact your local rent tribunal or seek legal advice; the rent tribunal can handle disputes about rental terms and unfair agreements [3].
- Must I always accept an installment agreement from the landlord?
- No, you should only accept if the terms are clear, written and realistic for your finances; seek advice if in doubt.
How to
- Contact the landlord in writing: request a detailed written installment plan, including dates and total amount.
- Gather documentation: keep all receipts, messages and the tenancy agreement as proof.
- Check terms against the Tenancy Act: compare the agreement with applicable rules and deadlines [1].
- Seek advice: contact a housing organization, tenant association or the rent tribunal if unsure.
- Prepare for the enforcement court: if the agreement is broken, be ready to document payments and correspondence.
