Tenant Guide: Who Pays for Utilities in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark it can be unclear who should pay for electricity, water and heating in a rental property. This article explains the difference between advance payments and fixed charges, which expenses tenants typically cover, and when costs may be charged to the landlord. I also go through how to read your lease, keep receipts and maintain consumption records, and what rights and complaint options you have, including contacting the Rent Tribunal[3] or using Borger.dk[2]. The aim is to give tenants in Denmark practical guidance so you avoid surprises and can present documentation if you face unreasonable demands or disputes over payment.
Who pays for consumption?
Allocation of electricity, water and heating is usually set out in the lease and in the Rental Act. Tenants often pay their own electricity and advance payments for heating or water, while landlords may cover fixed communal costs. If the contract is unclear, check your rights under the Rental Act[1] and obtain documentation for consumption.
Advance payments vs fixed charges
Advance payments cover expected consumption between settlements; fixed charges are amounts on the rent for fixed costs. At settlement you should receive an itemised statement showing consumption and any adjustments.
- Only pay what is agreed in the lease and request an itemised statement for advance payments.
- Read meter readings and record them with photos or a log every month.
- Report faults with heating or water to the landlord in writing.
FAQ
- Who pays advance payments?
- Tenants often pay advance payments unless the lease states otherwise; advance payments are settled later.
- Can the landlord demand extra consumption charges?
- The landlord can only demand what is agreed in the contract; unreasonable demands can be complained about to the Rent Tribunal.
- How do I get documentation for my consumption?
- Keep meter readings, photos and receipts so you can show concrete consumption in a dispute.
How-To
- Read the lease and note who is responsible for consumption costs.
- Read and document meter readings with photos and a log.
- Pay advance amounts only as agreed and keep receipts for settlement.
- Write to the landlord and request clarification if you disagree; keep all correspondence.
- File a complaint with the Rent Tribunal if the issue cannot be resolved locally.
Key Takeaways
- Regularly document your consumption and keep receipts.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach agreement with the landlord.
Help and Support / Resources
- Retsinformation - Rental Act
- Borger.dk - guidance for tenants
- Huslejenævn.dk - contact and complaints
