Prepare a Meeting on Repairs for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, being well prepared before a meeting with your landlord, caretaker or rent tribunal can be crucial. This article explains how to document damage, describe problems clearly, and present proposals for solutions related to maintenance and repairs. You will get a practical checklist to gather photos, receipts and communication, advice on knowing your rights under the tenancy law, and steps to request necessary repairs. We also cover how to write a simple agenda and stay calm during the conversation, plus next steps if no agreement is reached. The goal is to give tenants in Denmark concrete tools to hold effective and constructive meetings.
Preparation before the meeting
Start by collecting all relevant material and plan what you will say. Keep the tone neutral, describe the problems precisely, and decide which outcomes you want—e.g., repairs within a specific timeframe or temporary compensation.
- Gather photos and videos of the damage (evidence).
- Make copies of receipts, past repairs and all relevant correspondence (evidence).
- Note dates when problems occurred and any follow-up contacts you made (calendar).
- Create a simple agenda with 3–5 items to keep the meeting focused (form).
- Agree on time and place clearly and confirm the meeting in writing where possible (contact).
During the meeting
Be specific: point to documentation, propose realistic solutions and ask about the landlords plan for repair. Note agreements during the meeting so you can both refer back to them afterwards.
- Describe which repairs are necessary and why (repair).
- Agree on concrete deadlines for repair or follow-up (deadline).
- Request that agreements be put in writing or confirm by email after the meeting (evidence).
Documentation and follow-up
Write a short meeting summary with date, participants, what was agreed, and next steps. Send it to the landlord as confirmation. If there is disagreement about responsibility or solution, you can contact local complaint bodies or seek legal advice.
What to do if nothing happens
If the landlord does not follow up, send a written request and later bring the matter before the rent tribunal or court depending on the issue. Keep all communication and documentation as evidence for your case.
- Send a written reminder with a deadline for repair (form).
- Gather all evidence in chronological order (evidence).
- Consider bringing the case to the rent tribunal or consulting a lawyer if necessary (court).
Find statutes and standard forms on Retsinformation[1], Borger.dk[2], and the Rent Tribunal website[3].
FAQ
- Who pays for routine maintenance?
- Routine maintenance is generally the landlords responsibility to keep the property in good condition, but small recurring tasks may be assigned to the tenant in the contract.
- Can I withhold rent if a repair is not done?
- You should first try to get the work done in writing; withholding rent is risky and should only be considered after advice or via a tribunal.
- Where do I file a complaint about missing repairs?
- You can contact your local rent tribunal or seek guidance on Borger.dk to find the correct procedure.
How-To
- Collect documentation: photos, receipts and prior messages in chronological order.
- Send a short written request to the landlord with your desired deadline for repair.
- Follow up with a meeting and get agreements in writing.
- If no solution is reached, consider the rent tribunal or legal advice.
