Security Deposit Return: Guide for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, it is important to know your rights when a security deposit is not returned on time. This guide explains which steps you can take, how to document your claim, and which deadlines and complaint options apply. The information is written for ordinary tenants without legal expertise and mentions relevant authorities and rules so you can act clearly and confidently if a landlord refuses or ignores your request for repayment.
What you can do first
Start by sending a written claim to the landlord specifying the amount, account number and a deadline for repayment. Always keep a copy of the letter or email. If you act under the Rent Act, mention it explicitly and keep documents such as the lease and receipts.[1]
Next steps and documentation
Gather all documentation that shows why you believe you should receive all or part of the deposit back. This can include move-in and move-out reports, receipts for cleaning or repairs and photos.
- Send a clear, written claim with amount and account number.
- Collect evidence: photos, receipts and move-in/move-out reports.
- Wait the reasonable deadline (typically 14 days) after the claim to allow the landlord to pay.
- Contact the landlord in writing and keep all correspondence.
If the landlord does not respond
If the landlord refuses to pay or does not reply, you can complain to the Rent Tribunal or bring the case before the district court. Borger.dk describes standard forms and procedures for complaints[2], and the Rent Tribunal can assess the reasonableness of deductions.
Frequently asked questions
- When must the deposit be returned?
- The deposit is usually returned when the tenancy has ended, keys have been handed over, and the landlord has assessed any deductions.
- What do I do if the landlord withholds the deposit without documentation?
- Start with a written claim. If the landlord does not document the deductions, you can complain to the Rent Tribunal or file a lawsuit in the district court.
- Can the landlord withhold the deposit for damages?
- Yes, but the landlord must document the damages and the repair costs. Reasonable and documented deductions may be accepted; unsupported claims can be challenged.
How-To (step-by-step)
- Collect documentation: lease, move-in/move-out reports, photos and receipts.
- Send a formal written claim to the landlord with payment details and a reasonable deadline.
- Wait out the deadline and keep proof that the claim was sent and received.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance or bring the case if the landlord refuses to document deductions.[3]
- Consider pursuing the claim in the district court if no other remedies lead to a resolution.
