Platform Rental: Tenant Maintenance in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark using platform rental, it can be unclear who must pay for maintenance and repairs. This text explains tenants' rights, basic obligations for landlords and tenants, and which defects are the landlord's responsibility under the Rent Act.[1] You will get concrete advice on documentation, notice and complaint options at the rent tribunal or court, as well as practical steps if the landlord fails to act. The text also helps distinguish between normal wear and defects, and points out deadlines and how you best protect your home. The goal is to make your options clear so you can act safely and correctly. Always contact the Rent Tribunal in case of doubt or dispute.[2]
Who pays for repairs?
In general, the landlord is responsible for the building's technical condition and major installations, while the tenant typically handles minor maintenance and damages caused by the tenant. Below are typical examples:
- Structural repairs and major installations (roof, masonry, heating systems).
- Heating systems and fixed installations, when the fault is not caused by the tenant.
- Defects that affect health or habitability (e.g., heating, water).
- Minor maintenance such as replacing bulbs, small repairs and cleaning at move-out if the lease requires it.
- Repairs caused by tenant negligence or damage may be charged to the tenant.
How do you document and notify?
Documentation and correct notification are crucial if you want to assert a claim. Follow these steps to protect your rights.
- Take photos and videos of the defect with dates and note details.
- Send a written complaint to the landlord (email or letter) and describe the defect precisely.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repair in your complaint and state what you expect.
- Keep all correspondence and receipts for any expenses.
When can you complain to the Rent Tribunal?
If the landlord does not remedy defects within a reasonable deadline, or if the parties disagree about scope and responsibility, you can complain to the Rent Tribunal.[2] The Rent Tribunal can decide on rent reductions, orders to repair or reimbursements for unjustified deductions.
- For serious defects that are not remedied within the deadline you set.
- When there is disagreement about who should pay for a repair.
- For unjustified deductions from the deposit at move-out.
FAQ
- Who pays for a defective radiator?
- The landlord normally pays for radiator repairs unless the damage is due to the tenant's negligence or misuse.
- Can I stop paying rent because of defects?
- You should not withhold rent without legal advice; contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance on possible reductions or withholding.[2]
- How do I report a problem in writing?
- Describe the defect, attach photos, set a reasonable deadline for repair and keep a copy of your notice. Use official complaint options at Borger.dk if necessary.[3]
How to
- Document the defect with photos, video and note date and time.
- Notify the landlord in writing and describe exactly what is wrong.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repair in your communication.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal if the landlord does not respond or refuses to repair.
- Keep all correspondence and receipts for any repair expenses.
