Tenant complaints about landlord maintenance in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you can expect the landlord to provide necessary maintenance and repairs so the dwelling is habitable. When issues like lack of heating, water damage or mold arise, it is important to know how to document the damage, notify the landlord in writing and follow the correct complaint procedures. This guide explains tenant rights under the Rent Act (Lejeloven)[1], practical steps to file a complaint, and when you can appeal to the rent tribunal or proceed to the courts in Denmark. The language is simple and the advice is aimed at tenants without legal background so you can act quickly and correctly. Always keep documentation and responses within deadlines to strengthen your case.
What can you complain about?
You can complain when defects affect habitability or the usable value of the dwelling. Common examples include:
- Lack of heating or interruptions to heating.
- Water damage, leaking pipes or drainage problems.
- Mold or moisture damage that affects health.
- Defective installations such as electrical, ventilation or heating systems.
- Serious safety faults like missing locks or dangerous installations.
What does the landlord typically do?
The landlord is responsible for remedying significant defects, but scope and timing depend on the problem and the tenancy agreement. If the landlord does not respond, you can send a written reminder and set a reasonable deadline. If this does not help, the case can be brought to the rent tribunal or the courts[2].
What should you do first
Follow these basic steps to strengthen your complaint: thoroughly document the defect, contact the landlord in writing with a clear description and deadline, and save all correspondence and receipts. Use dates and photos as evidence, and note any health effects or visits by tradespeople.
Frequently asked questions
- What do I do if the landlord does not respond to my complaint?
- Send a written reminder with a concrete deadline and documentation. If there is still no action, you can complain to the rent tribunal[2] or seek legal advice.
- Can I withhold rent for missing repairs?
- Withholding rent is risky and should only be done after legal advice; the rent tribunal can decide rent amount or compensation in certain cases according to the Rent Act[1].
- How long does the landlord have to fix defects?
- There is no single fixed deadline in the law; it depends on the nature of the defect. Specify a reasonable deadline in your written complaint and document everything.
- How do I complain to the rent tribunal?
- Submit a written complaint with documentation, photos and copies of correspondence with the landlord. See the rent tribunal's guidance for specific requirements[2].
How to
- Document the damage with photos, dates and any witnesses, and keep receipts for repairs.[3]
- Write a formal complaint to the landlord with a description, repair request and a reasonable deadline.
- Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to respond, and send a reminder if the deadline passes.
- If the defect is not remedied, submit a complaint to the rent tribunal with all documentation.[2]
- Consider going to court if the case is complex or the loss in value is significant.
Key takeaways
- Document everything with photos and dates to prove defects.
- All communication should be in writing and kept as evidence.
- The rent tribunal can be a cost-effective and quick route in Denmark.
