Who Pays for Rent Increases in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, a notified rent increase can create uncertainty about who ultimately must pay, what notice rules apply, and what rights you have. This guide explains clearly and simply how rent increases are normally handled, which documents you should collect, how to respond to a notice letter, and when you can complain to the Rent Assessment Board or take the case to court. The purpose is to give tenants practical steps so you can protect your rights in tenancy matters, understand deadlines and find the relevant public resources in Denmark. The text avoids legal jargon and suggests concrete actions tenants can follow. Always contact your local Rent Assessment Board for guidance.
What happens when a rent increase is notified?
When a landlord notifies a rent increase, the form and deadlines of the notice must comply with the current rules in the Rent Act[1]. In practice, this means the landlord usually must give written notice and justify the increase, for example by improvements or changes in the regulation basis. As a tenant you must check whether the notice is correctly formulated and complies with the contract terms and legal requirements.
In most cases, the Rent Act rules apply to private tenancies.
What can you do as a tenant?
- Read the notice carefully and note deadlines for responses and any termination.
- Collect documentation such as the lease, receipts and previous notices.
- Send a written objection to the landlord if you believe the increase is unfair.
- Contact the Rent Assessment Board for advice and the possibility to bring the case forward[2].
- Consider legal advice if the case is complex or the amount is large.
Respond within deadlines to preserve your rights.
How do you appeal?
If you want to appeal a rent increase, start by sending a clear written objection to the landlord and request clarification. If the landlord upholds the increase, you can bring the case to the Rent Assessment Board or to court. Remember to attach all relevant documentation and state which points you object to.
Do not ignore official notice letters.
How to
- Gather evidence: lease, past rent payments, receipts and the notice letter.
- Write a clear, concise objection to the landlord and keep a copy.
- If you cannot reach agreement, file a complaint with the Rent Assessment Board or consider going to court.
- Attend hearings or submit complete documentation if the case is reviewed.
Documentation increases your chances in a complaint case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a landlord simply raise the rent without notice?
- No, the landlord must follow the notice rules in the lease and the Rent Act, and written notice is often required.
- Who pays the increased rent until an appeal is decided?
- As a general rule the tenant pays the notified rent, but you can object and seek repayment if the increase is later overturned.
- Where do I complain about an unfair rent increase?
- You can complain to your local Rent Assessment Board or ultimately to the courts; the Rent Assessment Board can often process cases faster[2].
