Rent Reduction for Defects in Denmark
What applies to deadlines for rent reduction?
As a tenant in Denmark you must act within certain deadlines to assert claims for defects in the dwelling. First you should notify the landlord in writing and allow time for remedy; thereafter the deadlines depend on the nature of the problem and whether you want rent reduction, repair, or compensation.[1]
When do the deadlines start?
Deadlines typically start from when the defect is discovered or should have been discovered. If you find damage or a condition that affects the usability of the dwelling, you should immediately notify the landlord in writing and document the issue with photos and descriptions.
- Notify the landlord immediately in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remedy.
- Document the defect with dates, photos and correspondence.
- Allow access if the landlord wants to repair the defect, but maintain your claims if the work is insufficient.
What affects whether you can get rent reduction?
The right to reduction depends on the extent, duration and whether the defect significantly reduces the rental value. Minor cosmetic issues rarely give full reduction, while lack of heating, damp or mold often justify larger claims.
- Lack of heating or serious damp can justify significant rent reduction.
- Minor faults may only justify a proportional small reduction.
- In some cases you can claim repayment for incurred extra expenses or increased consumption.
How to complain — the short steps
If the landlord does not remedy or rejects your claim, you can bring the case before the housing tribunal or ultimately the courts. The housing tribunal is often the first instance for disputes about rent reduction and other tenancy issues.[2]
- Send a written complaint to the landlord and document the response.
- Contact the housing tribunal or get guidance if the dispute is unresolved.
- Bring the case to the housing tribunal; if necessary the case can proceed to the district court.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When should I inform the landlord about a defect?
- You should inform the landlord immediately after you discover the defect and do so in writing so there is documentation of the time.
- How fast is the housing tribunal?
- Processing time varies, but the tribunal typically handles cases over weeks to months depending on complexity.
- Can I withhold rent myself?
- Withholding rent is risky without clear legal basis; follow approved procedures first or consult the housing tribunal.
How-To
- Discover the defect and note date and circumstances.
- Take photos and keep a log of faults, measurements and communication.
- Send a written complaint to the landlord with a demand for remedy and a deadline.
- If no solution: submit a complaint to the housing tribunal with documentation.
