Pets and House Rules for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark it can be difficult to navigate rules about pets, house rules and common areas. This article explains step by step what you as a tenant are entitled to, how house rules are normally handled, and what rights and duties both you and the landlord have regarding noise, access to common rooms and pets in the home. You will get concrete advice on how to raise the issue with the landlord, document problems and file complaints correctly with the rent tribunal or housing association. The text also guides on applicable timeframes and how to avoid conflicts with neighbours through clear agreements and good communication.
What applies to pets and house rules?
Rules about pets can be in the lease agreement or in a separate house rule. The Rent Act sets the framework for what a landlord can legally prohibit or allow, but concrete provisions are often agreed locally in housing associations or in the contract.[1] If nothing is stated in the contract, one typically starts from reasonableness and neighbours' right to peace and quiet.
Common areas and neighbour noise
Common areas often have their own rules in the house rules; this covers access, dog walking and noise limits. For persistent noise or violations, the rent tribunal or the housing association board may be the relevant contact point.[3]
- Document problems: take photos, note dates and keep receipts (document, evidence).
- Contact the landlord in writing and call if necessary (contact).
- Submit a formal complaint to the housing association or rent tribunal if the issue is not resolved (file).
- Observe deadlines: respond within reasonable time and follow any timeframes indicated by the landlord or tribunal (days, within).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a landlord completely ban pets?
- If the lease clearly forbids pets, the landlord can generally enforce the ban. However, a total ban may in some cases be unreasonable depending on the housing type and situation.
- What should I do about repeated neighbour noise?
- Start by documenting the noise and contact the neighbour or landlord in writing. If the noise continues, you can file a complaint with the rent tribunal or seek advice through municipal services.[2]
- Can I get an exemption for a pet?
- In some housing associations the landlord or board can grant permission under special conditions, e.g., requiring liability insurance or restrictions on number and size.
- What about damage caused by a pet?
- Damage should be documented and covered by agreement; often this is handled via the deposit or liability insurance. Discuss damages in writing with the landlord.
How to (step-by-step)
- Gather evidence: take photos, record audio/video and keep a log of dates and times.
- Contact the landlord: send a short and factual written message and save copies.
- File a formal complaint: submit the necessary documentation to the housing association or rent tribunal.
- Seek mediation options: the rent tribunal can handle disputes without a court case.
- Watch deadlines: respond within indicated timeframes to preserve your rights.
- When moving out: document the property condition on handover and keep move-in and move-out reports.
Key takeaways
- Documentation increases the likelihood of a successful complaint.
- Try to resolve issues through dialogue with the landlord first.
- The rent tribunal is an option before going to court.
