Tenant Rights in Denmark: Contents Insurance
As a tenant in Denmark it is important to understand how contents insurance and tenant rights interact. This guide explains what contents insurance typically covers for tenants, when you as a tenant may be held liable, and the steps you can take in case of damage, neighbour disputes or needed repairs. The text covers documentation, contacting the landlord, and how to bring a case before the rent tribunal or the court if disagreements arise. The aim is to provide clear, practical advice for tenants in Denmark so you can act quickly, protect your belongings and safeguard your rights without legal jargon.
What does contents insurance cover for tenants?
Contents insurance normally covers your personal belongings against fire, theft, water damage and certain vandalism. Coverage depends on your policy, and some damages may be excluded or only partially covered. It is important to check the sum insured for personal property, the deductible and any policy exclusions.
- Compensation for theft or burglary of personal belongings.
- Coverage for certain water damage, but not always for lack of maintenance.
- Liability coverage if you damage others' property or cause personal injury.
- Often requires documentation such as photos, receipts and a police report for theft.
When damage, repairs or liability arise
If damage occurs, you should immediately report to your insurer and contact your landlord if the damage concerns the building or shared installations. Document the damage with dates, photos and receipts. If the landlord does not make necessary repairs, you can take the matter to the rent tribunal or seek legal advice.[3]
What a tenant can do in disagreement
Follow these action steps to protect your rights and your contents insurance:
- Send a formal written request to the landlord demanding repair with a deadline.
- Collect documentation: photos, dates, receipts and any expert reports.
- Observe any deadlines in the tenancy law or in your lease for responses and complaints.
- Contact the rent tribunal or obtain legal advice if the landlord does not respond.[1]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need contents insurance as a tenant?
- No, it is not mandatory, but contents insurance protects your belongings and covers liability towards others.
- Who pays for building damage?
- The landlord is normally responsible for building damage and fixed installations, while the tenant covers damage to their own contents.
- What do I do if the landlord does not make repairs?
- Send a written request with a deadline, document the problem, and file a complaint with the rent tribunal or consult legal sources.[2]
How to
- Immediately note the date and time of the damage, take photos and contact your insurer.
- Gather evidence: receipts, photos and correspondence with the landlord.
- Send a written request to the landlord with a clear deadline for repair.
- If disagreement continues, file a complaint with the rent tribunal or seek advice from relevant authorities.
Help and Support / Resources
- Retsinformation - legislation and updates
- Borger.dk - practical forms and guidance
- Huslejenævn.dk - complaint guidance and contact
