Quiet Hours & Noise Log for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, noise from neighbours or shared areas can affect your daily life and health. This article explains what quiet hours are, how to keep a noise log, which evidence helps a complaint, and what steps you can take with a landlord or the rent tribunal. We cover practical advice on documentation, communication with neighbours and formal complaints, as well as deadlines and options for temporary solutions. The language is simple and examples are aimed at tenants without a legal background. The goal is that you get concrete tools to handle noise problems safely and effectively in Denmark.
What are quiet hours and why keep a noise log?
Quiet hours usually mean times of day when lower noise is expected, and this can be part of assessing whether a dwelling is habitable under the Rent Act.[1] A noise log helps document patterns, frequency and duration of disturbing noise so you can show concrete instances to the landlord or a complaints board.
What should a noise log include?
- Date and time for each noise episode, entered in your noise log.
- Audio recordings or video with clear timestamps (video).
- Photos of noise sources and any damage (photo).
- Any written messages or receipts related to the noise (receipt).
You can find templates and guidance on Borger.dk.[2]
Communication and complaints
Always inform the landlord in writing about the problem and attach extracts from your noise log and relevant documentation. If the landlord does not respond or tries to resolve the issue, you can complain to the rent tribunal or seek legal help. Be aware of deadlines and documentation requirements, as lack of evidence may weaken your case.[3]
FAQ
- What can I do if a neighbour is noisy at night?
- Keep a noise log, record audio/video with timestamps, inform the landlord in writing and request a solution. If nothing happens, you can contact the rent tribunal.
- Can the landlord enter to check noise?
- The landlord generally does not have unrestricted access; intrusions into privacy and access must be by agreement or by law with appropriate notice.
- When should I complain to the rent tribunal?
- If the landlord does not remedy significant noise problems after documented contact, the rent tribunal is a relevant next step.
How to
- Gather evidence: keep a noise log, record audio and take photos with timestamps.
- Contact the landlord in writing: send documentation and request a plan to fix the issue.
- File a formal complaint with the rent tribunal if the landlord does not resolve the problem.
- Consider legal advice or court action if the case requires further steps.
