Subletting in Denmark: consent and deadlines for tenants
As a tenant in Denmark you may need to sublet all or part of your rental property during studies, a job change or an extended trip. This article clearly explains when you as a tenant usually need landlord consent, which deadlines and formal requirements commonly apply, and how best to document a subletting agreement to protect your rights under the Rent Act [1]. You will also receive concrete advice on what to do if a landlord refuses without reasonable grounds, and how to bring a dispute before the Rent Tribunal or the district court [2]. The text includes practical steps, checklist suggestions and links to official resources so you can act confidently and find help faster.
What is subletting?
Subletting means that you as the tenant let another person live in all or part of the rental property, typically for payment. Subletting does not always require the landlords permission, but many lease agreements set clear requirements for written consent, duration and any restrictions. Always check your lease and the applicable rules in the Rent Act.
When is landlord consent required?
- When the lease explicitly forbids or restricts subletting.
- For time-limited sublets: the agreements duration should be stated and comply with relevant deadlines.
- When subletting changes the use of the dwelling, e.g. many occupants or commercial rental.
If the landlord requests information (e.g. the subtenants name or ID), provide only the necessary details and keep records of all correspondence.
Practical deadlines and formal requirements
There is no single universal deadline for all situations, but typically the following rules apply: when giving notice of subletting, the request should be made in good time before the desired takeover date and in writing. Some leases or local rules set specific response deadlines for the landlord; note dates of receipt and responses. Keep the lease, consent notice and any payment records from the subtenant.
What to do if the landlord refuses?
If the landlord refuses without reasonable grounds, first request a written justification and refer to relevant sections of the Rent Act. Document all contacts and responses. If the issue cannot be resolved locally, you can bring the dispute to the Rent Tribunal or ultimately to the district court. Remember that the Rent Tribunal is often a cheaper and faster alternative.
FAQ
- Do I always need landlord permission to sublet?
- Not always; it depends on the lease and whether the sublet changes the use of the dwelling. Many contracts, however, require written consent.
- What happens if I sublet without permission?
- The landlords reaction may range from an order to stop to termination of the lease for serious violations. Document everything and seek advice.
- Where do I complain if the landlord refuses unreasonably?
- You can complain to the local Rent Tribunal or take the case to the district court depending on the nature of the dispute and desired speed.
How-To
- Check your lease for a subletting clause and any conditions.
- Write a clear request to the landlord with the subtenants name, period and contact details.
- Request written consent and keep all correspondence as documentation.
- If refusal follows, request a written reason and consider bringing the case to the Rent Tribunal.
