Tenant Rights for Temporary Rentals in Denmark

As a tenant in Denmark you may encounter temporary rental situations where the landlord sets special conditions or requirements. This article guides you through which demands a landlord may lawfully make for short-term agreements, how maintenance and repairs are allocated, and what to do about unfair terms, rent increases, or threats of termination. We also explain how to document problems, contact the rent tribunal or Borger.dk^[3], and which deadlines apply when filing complaints. The text uses clear language and practical advice so that you as a tenant gain an overview of rights, obligations and possible next steps in Denmark. You get step-by-step advice on how to send written claims and which evidence is most effective.

What can the landlord demand for temporary rentals?

The landlord can set reasonable demands necessary to protect the property or document the tenancy, but may not introduce terms that conflict with the Rent Act (Lejeloven)^[1]. Common requirements include a written lease, information about deposits and the duration of the tenancy. Illegal or unfair conditions may include automatic fees without legal basis or clauses that remove your statutory rights.

Maintenance and repairs

As a general rule, the landlord is responsible for ensuring the property is in a proper condition at move-in and for major maintenance, while day-to-day minor repairs may be the tenant's responsibility if stated in the contract. If the landlord does not respond to fault reports, you should send a written reminder and document the issue with photos.

• Send a written fault report to the landlord with date and photos.
• Allow reasonable time and keep receipts for any temporary fixes.
• Contact the rent tribunal if repairs are refused or responsibility is unclear.^[2]

What can you do if terms seem unfair?

Begin by communicating with the landlord in writing. If negotiation fails, you can file a complaint with the local rent tribunal or seek guidance via Borger.dk^[3]. In serious cases the matter can be taken to court, but the rent tribunal handles many tenancy disputes without high costs.

• Write clearly which terms you find unfair and explain why.
• Attach documentation: contract excerpts, photos and correspondence.
• Consider seeking free legal advice or contacting the rent tribunal.

FAQ

Can the landlord demand higher rent in a temporary tenancy?

The landlord can request rent in accordance with the agreement, but notice rules and reasonableness still apply. The rent tribunal can assess whether the rent is reasonable.

Can the landlord require a special deposit for temporary rental?

A deposit can be required, but the amount must be stated in the contract and be reasonable given the tenancy. Extra fees without agreement may be invalid.

How do I complain about unfair terms?

Start with a written complaint to the landlord, keep documentation, and bring the matter to the rent tribunal or seek guidance on Borger.dk.

How to (Step-by-step)

1. Gather documentation: contract, photos, receipts and messages.
2. Send a written request to the landlord with your demands and a deadline.
3. If no solution, contact the rent tribunal or seek advice via Borger.dk.
4. Submit any formal complaint to the rent tribunal with all relevant attachments.

Help and Support / Resources

• Huslejenævnet - complaint and guidance
• Borger.dk - guidance on renting
• Retsinformation - Rent Act (Lejeloven)

1. [1] Lejeloven - Retsinformation
2. [2] Huslejenævnet - Huslejenaevn.dk
3. [3] Borger.dk - Renting a home