Temporary Tenancy in Denmark: Tenant Rights
What does temporary tenancy mean?
Temporary tenancy covers agreements with time limits or shorter duration than regular tenancies. It can be subleasing, student housing, or rental between two fixed contracts. Rights vary depending on the form of the agreement and whether it is written.
Responsibility for maintenance and repairs
Generally the landlord is responsible for ensuring the property is habitable at move-in and for major repairs. The tenant usually takes care of minor maintenance, cleaning and small fixes, unless otherwise agreed in the lease.
- The landlord typically pays for major repairs and heating (repair, maintenance).
- The tenant normally covers small repairs and ongoing upkeep (maintenance, fix), unless stated otherwise in the lease.
- Document damages with photos and receipts for repairs (photo, receipt).
Notices, termination and deadlines
Temporary tenancies may have special termination rules in the contract. If nothing else is agreed, the ordinary termination rules in the Rent Act apply. Be aware of time limits for both notice and deposit refunds.
- Check the contract's termination period and notices (deadline, days).
- The deposit is normally refunded within a reasonable time after move-out (deposit, refund).
What to do in a disagreement?
First try to resolve the issue with the landlord in writing. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can complain to the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice. The Rent Tribunal can handle disputes about rent, maintenance and deposits.[2]
Communication and documentation
Clear written communication makes it easier to document and prove your case. Always send important messages by email or registered mail, and keep copies of receipts and photos.
- Contact the landlord in writing and ask for confirmation when issues arise (contact, call).
- Keep photos, the lease and receipts as evidence (document, photo, receipt).
FAQ
- Can the landlord demand higher rent in a temporary tenancy?
- Rent must follow the agreement in the lease and the rules in the Rent Act and the Rent Regulation Act. If in doubt, the Rent Tribunal can assess whether the rent is reasonable.
- Who pays for damages during the tenancy?
- The landlord normally covers building damages, while the tenant may be responsible for damages caused by their behavior. Agree and document responsibility in the lease.
- How do I complain to the Rent Tribunal?
- First send a written notice to the landlord. If there is no solution, submit a complaint to the Rent Tribunal with documentation and copies of communications.[2]
How to
- Collect documentation: photos, lease, receipts and messages.
- Contact the landlord in writing and describe the problem clearly with a request for a solution or timetable.
- Submit a formal complaint to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement, attaching all documentation.
- Consider legal help or the courts for major disputes if the Rent Tribunal's decision does not resolve the matter.
