Noise, Quiet Hours & Tenant Rights in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, noise and rules about quiet hours can affect your daily life and your rights. This guide explains what a landlord may require, when you can keep a noise log, and how documentation helps when complaining to the tenant tribunal or court. You will get concrete steps to collect evidence, communicate clearly with neighbours and the landlord, and how deadlines and written notices work. We also cover which types of noise are typically unreasonable, how to measure and record incidents in the noise log, and when it is relevant to contact the tenant tribunal or seek legal advice.
What may the landlord require?
The landlord has the right to require reasonable order and quiet in the property, but must not violate the tenant's right to privacy or use unreasonable demands as a pretext for constant control. Rules on access, notice and eviction are set out in the tenancy legislation.[1]
Quiet hours
Quiet hours can be agreed in the house rules or in the lease; such rules must be reasonable and not conflict with the overall provisions of the tenancy law.[1] If the house rules require quiet hours, they should be clearly formulated with times and exceptions.
Noise log and documentation
A noise log helps both you and any complaints body assess the extent and frequency of noise disturbances. Note each incident precisely, keep evidence and explain the context briefly.
- Date and time (date/time) of each noise incident.
- Photos or video (photo/video) that show the source or situation, if possible.
- Written communication with neighbour or landlord (email/letter) and copies of warnings.
- Notes about recurring technical problems (repair) causing noise, e.g. faulty ventilation or construction.
Communication and complaints
Always start with a polite, written message to both the neighbour and the landlord, describing the problem and suggesting solutions. Keep copies of all communication. If the problem continues, you can file a complaint with the tenant tribunal or seek legal advice.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I do if a neighbour makes noise at night?
- Try to speak with the neighbour first and make a written contact. If the noise continues, keep a noise log and contact the landlord. If ineffective, you can complain to the tenant tribunal.[3]
- Am I entitled to compensation for noise?
- Compensation depends on the extent of the disturbance and documentation. Keep logs and evidence; the tribunal assesses whether there should be rent reduction or compensation.
- Can the landlord force me to comply with house rules including quiet hours?
- Yes, if the house rules are reasonable and lawful. Unreasonable or illegal requirements can be challenged via the tenant tribunal or courts.[1]
How to file a complaint with the tenant tribunal
- Gather documentation: noise log, photos/video and copies of correspondence.
- Check requirements and guidance on Borger.dk for relevant forms and information.[2]
- Submit the complaint to your local tenant tribunal with all attachments and a short description of the desired outcome.[3]
- Follow up and be prepared to give an oral or written statement if the tribunal asks for it.
Key takeaways
- Document noise systematically in a log to prove repeated disturbances.
- Communicate in writing and keep all correspondence with neighbour and landlord.
- Use the tenant tribunal if local solutions do not work.
Help and Support / Resources
- Retsinformation - Tenancy Act
- Borger.dk - Complaints and guidance
- Tenant Tribunal - Contact and guidance
