What Information Landlords Can Request in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you may be asked by a landlord about identity, finances or previous rental history. This guide clearly explains which pieces of information a landlord typically may request, what requires extra caution, and which demands may be unreasonable or unlawful. We review documentation such as copies of ID, payslips and reference contacts, explain your rights under rental law[2], and show practical steps if you want to refuse or limit a request. The goal is to give you concrete advice so you can protect your privacy while meeting reasonable requirements in Denmark. The text also includes examples of which information you can limit and how to document necessity to a landlord or the rent tribunal.[1]
What can a landlord request?
Landlords can ask for information relevant to assessing the tenant's ability to pay and identity. Requests must be proportionate to the purpose of the tenancy.
- Documentation: copy of ID (passport or national ID) or other written proof of identity.
- Finances: payslips, employment contract or other proof of income.
- Security: information about deposits or guarantee schemes at the start of the tenancy.
- References: contact details for previous landlords or employers for verification.
- Consent for necessary checks: e.g. written consent if credit checks or similar are to be obtained.
- Practical details: arrangements about viewings, moving in and keys related to the tenancy.
What can a landlord not request?
Certain information is too private or irrelevant and may be illegal to request without specific legal basis or consent.
- Sensitive information: health data, political or religious beliefs and similar special categories of personal data are generally not permitted.
- National ID number without legitimate purpose: providing a national ID number often requires a clear justification and is not standard for tenancy agreements.
- Disproportionate or irrelevant data: demands for access to private accounts or unnecessary surveillance are not allowed.
How to respond
If you are unsure whether a request is reasonable, ask for a written justification, limit the scope of information, or refuse to provide sensitive data. If disagreement continues, contact the rent tribunal or seek guidance on Borger.dk.[3]
- Ask for a written reason for each item requested.
- Offer alternative documents that meet the purpose without sharing sensitive data.
- Contact authorities or the rent tribunal if you believe the request is unreasonable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a landlord require my national ID number?
- Generally, a national ID number may only be required if there is a legitimate need and justification; other forms of identification are often sufficient.
- Which financial documents can a landlord request?
- A landlord can typically ask for payslips or other proof of income to assess payment ability, but requests must be proportionate.
- What do I do if I think a request is illegal?
- You should first ask for a written explanation, then contact the rent tribunal or seek guidance via official public channels for assessment.
How to (step-by-step)
- Gather documents: obtain copies of ID, payslips and any references relevant to the tenancy.
- Write to the landlord: request a written explanation if you are unsure why information is necessary.
- Seek help: contact the rent tribunal or use Borger.dk for standard forms and guidance.
- Document everything: save emails, photos and copies for use in a complaint or legal action.
