Broken Window for Tenants in Denmark: Who Pays?

As a tenant in Denmark, a broken window can feel overwhelming — who must pay, and what should you do first? This guide explains your rights and obligations in rental housing, immediate actions to ensure safety and documentation, and when the landlord is normally responsible. You will get concrete advice on contacting the landlord, securing evidence, checking insurance, and reporting the damage to authorities or the Tenancy Board if you cannot agree. The language is simple and the steps are practical for Danish tenants so you know how to protect yourself, avoid unnecessary costs and act within the deadlines that apply in Denmark. Read the practical steps below and find links to official guidance.^[3]

Hvad kan du gøre straks

First and foremost, focus on safety and limiting damage: remove children and pets from the area, clean up glass shards safely, and temporarily cover the hole to prevent water damage. Contact the landlord as soon as possible and describe the damage clearly so safety measures or temporary closure can be agreed.

Hvem betaler for knust rude?

Liability often depends on the cause: if the damage is due to ordinary wear and lack of maintenance, the landlord may be responsible. If the damage is caused by the tenant's negligence or intentional act, the tenant may be asked to pay or make an insurance claim. Danish tenancy law contains rules about maintenance and liability that determine cost allocation.^[1]

Insurance and deductible

• Check whether your contents insurance covers glass damage and what deductible applies.
• If the damage is reported to the landlord's building insurance, clarify payment and process with the landlord in writing.

Damage and documentation

Documentation is crucial: take photos from different angles, note date and time, and keep any receipts for temporary repairs. Send a written message to the landlord — email or SMS is fine — where you describe the damage and request repair or clarification of responsibility.

• Take photos of the entire window, the frame and nearby damage.
• Write a timeline of who was contacted and when.
• Keep receipts for emergency repairs or replacement panes.

If you cannot agree

If tenant and landlord disagree about liability or payment, the case can often be brought before the local Tenancy Board or Tenant Complaint Board. The board can decide on maintenance obligations, repayment or rent deductions depending on the nature of the case.^[2]

Typical cost of a window

The price depends on pane size, glass type and whether the frame needs replacement. Small single panes can be inexpensive, while specialty glass and full window replacement can be more costly. Always obtain written quotes to avoid disputes about price and responsibility.

FAQ

Who pays if I accidentally break the window?

If the damage is due to your negligence as a tenant, you may be liable; check your contents insurance for coverage or agree payment with the landlord.

Can the landlord demand immediate payment?

The landlord can request a quick resolution, but all demands should be documented in writing and assessed based on the cause of the damage and the tenancy agreement.

How do I complain if we cannot agree?

You can bring the case to the Tenancy Board or seek guidance on official authority sites for help with complaints and process.

How to

1. Secure the area and prevent further damage or personal injury.
2. Contact the landlord in writing and describe the damage with time and cause.
3. Take photos and note the sequence of events as documentation.
4. Check contents insurance and any building insurance for coverage.
5. Agree on repair with the landlord or obtain written quotes from glaziers.
6. If disagreement persists, bring the case to the Tenancy Board or seek legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• Retsinformation: Lov om leje (Lejeloven)
• Huslejenævn: Complaint guidance
• Borger.dk: Official guidance for tenants

1. [1] Retsinformation
2. [2] Huslejenævnet
3. [3] Borger.dk