Deadlines for Tenants to Check Utility Accounts in Denmark
Utilities & statements (heat, water, electricity; on-account vs flat)
3 min read
·
published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Denmark, it is important to know the deadlines for checking your utility accounts because incorrect or delayed review can make it harder to resolve disputes. This article explains which time limits apply to receipt and objection of heating, water, and electricity accounts, which documents you should keep, and how to document errors to the landlord or the rent tribunal. We include practical steps to collect receipts, check advance payments, and file a formal complaint, as well as references to relevant rules and official sources in Denmark. Read examples of when a cost can be included and what you can claim back so you can act in time and protect your rights.[1]
When should you check?
The first step is to open the consumption account immediately on receipt and note the date. While specific deadlines may vary depending on the type of account and the lease, it is important to react quickly to preserve your options to complain or request documentation.
- On receipt: Open and note the receipt date so you have a clear starting point for any objections.
- After annual settlement: Check the settlement period and compare with your advance payments.
- In case of discrepancy: Collect receipts and documentation as soon as possible to support your objection.
Documentation and prompt action improve your chances in a complaint.
What should you check?
When reviewing the account, systematically check the following points so you can clarify your objection or request an explanation from the landlord.
- Meter readings: Compare stated readings with your own or previous records.
- Advance payments: Check that the amounts paid are correctly offset in the account.
- Receipts and invoices: Request receipts for large items or unusual expenses.
- Allocation and consumption: Pay attention to how shared costs are distributed among residents.
Keep all receipts and emails for at least one year to be able to substantiate your claims.
How to document and complain
First gather documentation, then contact the landlord in writing and precisely. If you do not receive a satisfactory explanation, you can complain to the rent tribunal or seek guidance from official authorities.
- Collect receipts, meter readings and previous accounts as PDFs or photos.
- Send a written objection to the landlord with date, precise description and a request for documentation.
- Contact the rent tribunal if the landlord does not respond or the answer is insufficient.
Respond to inquiries and objections within a reasonable time to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- When should I check a utility account?
- You should check the account immediately on receipt and note the receipt date so you can react quickly in case of errors or questions.
- What documents should I keep?
- Keep receipts, emails, meter readings and previous accounts so you can prove your payments and consumption.
- Who can I complain to if the landlord does not respond?
- If the landlord does not provide a satisfactory explanation, you can complain to your local rent tribunal or get guidance via borger.dk.
How to
- Open the account and note the receipt date as a first step.
- Compare amounts with your receipts and meter readings.
- Write a brief written objection to the landlord with precise documentation.
- Contact the rent tribunal if you do not receive a response or the response is inadequate.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Lejeloven - Retsinformation
- [2] Borger.dk - Guide to renting
- [3] Rent tribunal - guidance and complaints
