Tenant Rights in Denmark: What Can Landlords Do?
As a tenant in Denmark, it can be overwhelming to understand what a landlord may and may not do. This guide clearly explains your basic tenant rights, how the rules protect you against unreasonable rent increases, wrongful evictions and lack of repairs, and which steps you can take if problems arise. You will get practical advice on documentation, written communication with the landlord and the authorities that can help, such as the Rent Tribunal and Citizen Services. The language is plain, and the examples are aimed at common rental problems in Denmark so you can quickly find the information most relevant to your situation. Read the sections below for concrete steps, templates and information about complaint deadlines.
What can the landlord do?
The landlord has the right to require payment and maintain the property, but may not violate the Rent Act with unreasonable demands or intrusion into privacy. As a tenant you are entitled to a dwelling that meets basic health and safety standards and to have necessary repairs carried out promptly.
Rent and increases
- Notice for rent increase (rent): The landlord must give written notice and follow legal rules.
- Deposit (deposit): Maximum size and refund requirements must be stated in the tenancy agreement.
- Documentation (document): Request receipts for payments and proof of maintenance.
Termination and moving out
- Termination notices: Follow statutory notice periods for tenancy and termination.
- Moving out (move-out): Return keys and document the condition on handover.
- Invalid termination: You can challenge a termination before the Rent Tribunal or the courts.
Repairs and maintenance
The landlord is obliged to keep the dwelling in a proper condition under the Rent Act, and major defects must be remedied within a reasonable time according to the law[3]. Minor repairs may be the tenant's responsibility if agreed in the contract, but critical faults such as leaks or lack of heating must be prioritized by the landlord.
- Emergency repairs (repair): The landlord must as soon as possible fix hazards to health or safety.
- Non-urgent issues: Request a written schedule for repairs.
- Document defects with photos and dates.
Complaints and disputes
If you cannot reach a solution with the landlord, you can file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal[1] or seek guidance via borger.dk[2]. The Rent Tribunal handles many cases about rent, deposits and maintenance, and can often resolve disputes without court.
FAQ
- What do I do if the landlord fails to repair?
- Write to the landlord in writing, document the problem with photos and dates, and file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal[1].
- Can the landlord raise the rent without notice?
- No, the landlord must follow the rules on notice and documentation in the Rent Act[3] before a valid increase.
- How do I get help understanding my tenancy agreement?
- You can get guidance and templates on Borger.dk, or contact your municipality and the Rent Tribunal for advice[2].
How to
- Gather evidence: Take photos, keep receipts and create a timeline (document).
- Write to the landlord: Send a precise written report of defects and keep the reply.
- Submit a complaint: Use the Rent Tribunal or the relevant complaints authority and attach documentation.
- Seek formal resolution: If necessary, take the case to court or obtain legal advice (court).
- Observe deadlines: Be aware of complaint and termination deadlines.
