New Buildings and Fair Rent in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, new buildings and disputes about fair rent can cause confusion and mistakes. This guide explains common problems tenants face with new builds, how rent can be regulated under current rules, and what rights you have under the Rent Act [1]. We also outline concrete steps for documentation, communication with the landlord and how to file a complaint with the tenancy board [2]. The text uses plain language to help you assess offers, respond to rent increases and avoid formal errors that could weaken your position as a tenant.
What goes wrong with new builds and fair rent?
Many problems arise because tenants or landlords misunderstand which costs can be included when setting rent for newly built homes, or because there is a lack of written documentation. Other errors include unclear index adjustments, lack of maintenance and poor communication about additional charges.
- The landlord calculates too high a rent without clear calculation or documentation.
- Missing written documentation of agreements, improvements or additional costs.
- Errors in maintenance or lack of heating and water in newly built rental properties.
- Missed deadlines for objections and complaints, leading to loss of rights.
What can you do as a tenant?
Always start by collecting all written communication and receipts. Request a detailed calculation from the landlord if the rent seems unreasonable, and note dates for sending letters or emails. Observe all deadlines for responses and complaints, and contact the tenancy board if you cannot agree. Use Borger.dk for standard forms and guidance when filing a complaint.
Common misunderstandings
Some tenants believe that new buildings automatically mean higher rent without limit; others think that all improvements can freely be passed on to the rent. Both are incorrect. Rent level and index adjustments are regulated by rules, and the landlord's claims must be documented.
FAQ
- Can the landlord increase the rent for a new build?
- Yes, the landlord can set rent for a new build, but the amount must be reasonable and documented based on actual costs and applicable rules in the Rent Act [1].
- What should I do if the rent seems unreasonable?
- Collect documentation, write to the landlord and file a complaint with the tenancy board if you cannot agree; the board can assess reasonableness [2].
- Where can I find help documents and forms?
- Use Borger.dk for official guidance and standard forms for complaints and communication with the landlord.
How to
- Collect all documentation: contract, receipts, emails and photos.
- Write to the landlord clearly and in writing requesting documentation for the rent calculation.
- File a complaint with the tenancy board within applicable deadlines, and follow up with copies of documents.
