Tenant Maintenance & Repairs in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you may wonder who must pay for repairs, how the landlord should give notice of work, and what rights you have if the property has defects. This guide explains in plain language your rights and obligations regarding maintenance, when to contact the landlord, and how to document problems in the rental. You will also get practical steps to complain, contact the Rent Tribunal, and use official forms so you can act effectively without legal background. The aim is to give concrete advice so you can have defects remedied quickly and correctly in Denmark. Read the sections below for concrete examples and step-by-step guidance.
What do the rules cover for maintenance and repairs?
The rules in the Tenancy Act set out which duties the landlord and tenant have regarding maintenance and repairs. In short, the landlord is responsible for structural elements and significant installations, while the tenant often handles minor ongoing maintenance.[1]
Always contact the landlord in writing about damages.
Who pays for what?
- Landlord: Major repairs to the roof, load-bearing walls, heating system and legally required installations.
- Tenant: Minor repairs and damage resulting from the tenant's negligence or misuse.
- Security deposit does not cover normal wear and tear but can be used for documented damages at move-out.
Notice and deadlines
The landlord must normally give notice before contractors gain access, and the length of notice depends on the type of work. Emergency repairs may be carried out faster, but the landlord should still inform you of time and purpose.
Respond to written messages within deadlines to preserve your rights.
- Emergency repairs: Often short notice, e.g. for water or heating failures.
- Planned work: Landlord typically gives reasonable notice so you can prepare.
- Interference with privacy: Landlord must follow rules on access and notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for major repairs?
- The landlord normally pays for major and structural repairs. The tenant may be responsible for minor maintenance or damages caused by the tenant themselves.
- Can the landlord demand access for repairs without notice?
- Only for urgent matters that pose a risk of damage or health hazards. For planned works the landlord should usually give prior notice.
- What should I do if the landlord does not respond about defects?
- Document the defects, send a written notice to the landlord, and contact the Rent Tribunal for assistance in getting the matter assessed and possibly filed as a complaint.
How to
- Document the issue with photos, date and a short description so you have evidence.
- Send a written notice to the landlord requesting repair and a reasonable deadline; keep copies of communication and receipts.
- If the landlord does not respond, submit a complaint to the Rent Tribunal or seek guidance on next steps.
- Avoid expensive solutions without agreement from the landlord unless the situation is urgent and needs immediate action.
Key takeaways
- Documentation increases the likelihood of defects being remedied.
- Keep all communication in writing to use as evidence.
- Use the Rent Tribunal when in doubt before going to court.
