Smoke Alarms & Fire Safety for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, it is important to know the deadlines and responsibilities around smoke alarms and fire safety. This article explains who is obliged to install and maintain the smoke alarm, how often you should check it, and what to do if the alarm does not work or is missing. We review typical tenant situations, the documentation you should collect, and how to complain to the landlord or the Rent Tribunal if the problem is not resolved. You will also get templates for written communication and guidance on when a case should be brought before the Rent Tribunal or the courts. The article refers to official sources and explains legal terms without legal jargon.
What do the rules say about smoke alarms and fire safety?
The starting point in Denmark is that homes must be safe and defensible. The landlord typically has responsibility for installation and major maintenance, while the tenant must handle daily operation and report faults promptly. See the Rent Act for exact duties and deadlines[1].
When and who should act?
Here are practical points about who does what and which deadlines often apply:
- Tenant: check the smoke alarm at least once a month (within).
- Landlord: install and ensure replacement in case of technical failure or unit replacement (repair).
- Notification: send written notice to the landlord as soon as possible and set a clear deadline (file).
- Documentation: take photos, note date and time, and keep receipts for repairs (evidence).
What do you do about faults or missing smoke alarms?
Follow these steps: contact the landlord immediately in writing, describe the fault, suggest an access time for repair and set a reasonable deadline. If the landlord does not respond, you can bring the case to the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice. Remember to document everything in writing and keep evidence[2].
What can you demand financially?
If the landlord fails to remedy faults, the tenant may in some cases demand rent reduction or reimbursement for necessary repairs. This typically requires clear documentation and possibly a decision from the Rent Tribunal or the courts.
FAQ
- Who is responsible for the smoke alarm?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for installing and ensuring a functional smoke alarm, but the tenant must regularly check and report faults.
- How often should the smoke alarm be checked?
- It is recommended to check the smoke alarm at least once a month and after power outages or moving.
- What do I do if the landlord does not respond?
- Send a written reminder, document the issue and bring the case to the Rent Tribunal if the landlord still fails to act.
How to
- Check the smoke alarm and note faults or deficiencies (repair).
- Write to the landlord with photo, description and proposed access time (contact).
- Collect documentation: dates, photos, receipts and correspondence (evidence).
- Bring a complaint to the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice if the landlord does not follow up (file).
Key takeaways
- The smoke alarm is a central part of home safety, and defects must be addressed promptly (safety).
- Documentation increases the chance of a successful complaint to the Rent Tribunal (evidence).
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Borger.dk - Information for tenants
- [2] Retsinformation.dk - Rent Act
- [3] Huslejenaevn.dk - Complaint guidance
