Tenant Complaint: Rent Increase in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, a sudden rent increase can create uncertainty and questions about your rights. This guide explains how you can complain or appeal a rent increase, which rules typically apply, which documents and evidence you should collect, and which deadlines you must meet. We review how the Rent Tribunal and the courts may handle a case, and provide clear, practical steps to prepare a complaint, contact your landlord and possibly appeal a decision. The aim is to help you as a tenant in Denmark act correctly, avoid mistakes and maximize your chances of a good outcome without unnecessary risks.
What can you complain about?
This section shows typical reasons to complain about a rent increase. You can complain if the increase seems unreasonable compared with similar apartments, if the notice does not follow the rules in the lease or the Rent Act[1], or if the increase is due to calculation errors.
You can normally complain if the landlord has not followed formal notice requirements and rules.
- Increase without correct notice from the landlord.
- Amount clearly exceeding market rent for comparable homes.
- Errors in calculations or incorrect index adjustments.
How does the complaint process work?
Usually you start by writing to your landlord asking for an explanation and documentation for the increase. If you do not reach an agreement, you can submit a written complaint to the local Rent Tribunal or, in some cases, bring the case to court. The Rent Tribunal often evaluates the evidence and may set a new rent or reject the claim. Remember that notes, correspondence and receipts are important.
Keep all letters, e-mails and receipts organized as documentation for a complaint.
Documentation and evidence
Good documentation increases your chances of success. Gather the lease, notices, communication with the landlord, photos of the apartment condition and any comparable ads for similar homes.
- Lease and previous notices.
- Correspondence with the landlord (e-mail, SMS, letters).
- Photos and sample ads of comparable apartments.
- Receipts for improvements or maintenance.
Detailed documentation makes it easier for the Rent Tribunal to assess your case.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the deadline to complain about a rent increase?
- You should complain as soon as possible; practice shows complaints should be filed within a few months after the notice to preserve evidence and ensure timely handling.
- Can I be evicted if I complain?
- A tenant usually has protection against unjustified eviction as a result of a complaint, but act quickly and follow official procedures to minimize the risk of conflict.
- Who handles my complaint?
- Local Rent Tribunals typically handle such complaints; in some cases the matter may go to the district court if a party appeals the decision[2].
How to do it
- Collect your lease, notices and all correspondence.
- Write a clear, written explanation to the landlord and request documentation for the increase.
- Submit a formal complaint to your local Rent Tribunal if the issue is not resolved.
- Prepare evidence and possible witness statements for the tribunal or a subsequent court case.
- Consider legal advice for complex cases or high disputed amounts.
Respond to notices and complaint requests within stated deadlines to preserve your rights.
