Noise Rules and Deadlines for Tenants in Denmark
Noise from neighbours can be both stressful and complex to handle. As a tenant in Denmark, it is important to know the deadlines for documenting disturbances, notifying your landlord and filing a complaint with the tenancy board. This guide explains how to keep a noise log, what documentation strengthens your case, and which timings are crucial to preserve your rights. We go through practical steps, examples of notes and when it is typically relevant to seek help from authorities or legal advice.
What are quiet periods and a noise log?
A quiet period is the time when neighbours are generally expected to limit noise — often nighttime or other times agreed in the house rules. A noise log is a chronological, written record of disturbances: date, time, duration, type of noise and any evidence such as photos or audio recordings. A good noise log makes it easier to document patterns of disturbance and shows that you have tried to resolve the issue.
Deadlines and documentation
When noise problems arise, timing matters. Some actions must be taken quickly to preserve the value of evidence and timely complaint handling. The following points explain the most important deadlines and what documentation you should collect.
- Note the date and time for each episode (deadline) as precisely as possible.
- Save evidence such as photos or audio recordings (record) and describe the context for each recording.
- Send a written notice to the landlord and keep a copy (file) — both email and registered mail are useful.
- Contact the neighbour or caretaker first and note all attempts at dialogue (contact) before escalating the matter.
If the disturbances continue after notification, you may consider filing a complaint with the tenancy board or seeking legal advice. Many complaints require that you document attempts to resolve the matter directly with the landlord or neighbour first.[2]
What happens if deadlines are missed?
If you miss deadlines for filing complaints or cannot present documentation, it may weaken your case. The Tenancy Act outlines the landlord's obligations and the tenant's rights regarding disturbances and defects, so it is a good idea to stay informed about the relevant rules.[1]
Frequently asked questions
- What should I write in a noise log?
- Write the date, exact time, duration, type of noise, who was involved and what evidence you have, such as audio or pictures.
- How quickly should I notify the landlord?
- Notify the landlord as soon as possible after repeated or serious disturbances, and do so in writing so there is proof you raised the issue.
- Can I complain to the tenancy board?
- Yes, if the problem is not resolved, you can file a complaint with the tenancy board; they typically handle cases about indoor disturbances and breaches of house rules.[2]
How to
- Keep a daily noise log and note all relevant details and save audio or photos (record).
- Write a clear, written notice to the landlord and keep a copy (file).
- If the landlord does not respond, prepare a complaint with your documentation to the tenancy board (file).
- Submit all attachments and attend or participate if the board schedules a hearing (court).
- Keep all correspondence and copies of receipts and recordings for at least one year after the case is closed (record).
