Tenant rights for contractor access in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, it is important to know when your landlord may allow contractors access to your home, what notice rules apply, and what rights you have. This helps you protect privacy, ensure proper maintenance, and avoid unnecessary costs. The guide explains the difference between necessary repairs and voluntary work, what applies in an emergency, how notices should be given, and who normally pays for different types of repairs. You will get concrete steps for documentation, communication with the landlord, and options to complain to the Rent Tribunal or seek guidance on official sites. The language is simple and aimed at tenants without a legal background.
What does the law say?
The basic rules on access and maintenance are found in the Tenancy Act. [1] The landlord is obliged to keep the dwelling in a proper condition, but access to your apartment must comply with rules on notice and privacy.
When may the landlord gain access?
In general, the landlord may allow contractors access to perform necessary maintenance or emergency repairs. Non-urgent work must be notified, while emergency damage (e.g., major water damage or fire) may justify immediate access. If the landlord's contractors need to enter to inspect or assess conditions, the time and scope should be clearly communicated in advance.
- Notice of at least 24 hours before planned work (time) is common for non-urgent jobs.
- Access for emergency damage without prior notice may occur if the damage threatens the home's safety or residents (repair).
- The landlord must not use access as an excuse for unnecessary surveillance or repeated interruptions (entry).
- Who pays: ordinary maintenance is the landlord's responsibility, while damage caused by the tenant can often be deducted from the deposit or charged (payment).
- Documentation such as photos and written communication helps in disputes or complaints (evidence).
Practical advice for tenants
Communicate clearly: request written notice, note the time and purpose of the work, and get a contact person at the landlord's side. If you suspect unnecessary access or unlawful behavior, you may refuse access until the matter is clarified, unless there is an emergency. If the work requires multiple visits, ask for a schedule of times and duration.
What can you do in a dispute?
Start by writing to the landlord and asking for an explanation. If you cannot agree, you can contact the Rent Tribunal or seek guidance on Borger.dk for standard procedures and forms. [2] The Rent Tribunal handles many disputes about access, maintenance and payment. [3]
FAQ
- When can a landlord enter without notice?
- A landlord can normally only enter without notice in case of imminent danger to the dwelling or residents, e.g., major water damage or fire.
- Must I let contractors in if I am not at home?
- You can give written consent for access or arrange a time; without consent the landlord may only use access for emergency damage or with valid notice.
- Where do I complain if I believe the rules have been broken?
- You can complain to the local Rent Tribunal or get guidance via Borger.dk and relevant legislation on Retsinformation.
How to
- Document the situation with photos and written messages to the landlord (evidence).
- Request written notice with date, time and purpose of the work (notice).
- Contact the Rent Tribunal or Borger.dk for guidance if the dispute continues (contact).
- File a formal complaint with the Rent Tribunal including all documentation if the dispute persists (court).
