Tenant Rights for Mold in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you may face a difficult situation if your home has a leak or mold. This article explains clear steps for what you as a tenant can expect from the landlord, which repairs the landlord normally must pay for, and which duties you have yourself to prevent moisture and mold. You will also get practical advice on documentation, communication with the landlord and how to complain to the Rent Tribunal or go to court if necessary. The language is made easy to understand so you can act quickly to protect health, your rights as a tenant and your possibility of having damage remedied in the rental home.
What does the law say?
In Denmark, the relationship between tenant and landlord is primarily regulated by the Tenancy Act [1]. According to the rules, the dwelling must be habitable, and serious moisture or mold problems can give the right to repair, rent reduction or compensation in certain cases.
Who pays for repairs?
- If a leak is due to structural failure, the landlord is normally responsible.
- If the tenant has caused the damage through neglect, the tenant may be required to pay for repairs.
- A deposit can in some cases be used to cover damage caused by the tenant.
Documentation and complaints
- Take photos from several angles, note the date and time of discovery, and keep all messages with the landlord.
- Keep receipts for temporary repairs and copies of letters or emails sent to the landlord.
- Start by contacting the landlord in writing and propose a deadline for repair.
How do you complain?
If dialogue with the landlord does not lead to a solution, you can complain to your local Rent Tribunal [2] or seek guidance and standard forms on Borger.dk [3]. In many cases, documentation, photos and a written request to the landlord are required as the basis for a complaint.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for mold?
- If the mold is due to building defects or lack of maintenance, the landlord is normally responsible. If the tenant caused the moisture, the tenant may be responsible.
- Can the landlord require access for inspection?
- The landlord can request access by agreement and with reasonable notice, but must respect the tenant's privacy and notify the visit.
- Can I stop paying rent?
- You should not withhold rent without legal grounds. Contact the Rent Tribunal or get advice before you withhold payment.
How-To
- Write a written message to the landlord requesting repair and a reasonable deadline.
- Document the damage with photos, notes and receipts for any temporary repairs.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance and to file a complaint if the landlord does not act [2].
- Use guides and forms from Borger.dk when pursuing the complaint process [3].
