Tenant Guide: Energy & Indoor Climate in Denmark

As a tenant in Denmark, questions about energy, heating and indoor climate can affect both finances and well-being. This guide answers the most common tenant concerns about heating systems, heating bills, lack of heating, damp and mold as well as duties and rights regarding the landlord. You will receive clear steps on how to document problems, contact the landlord or the Tenancy Board^[1], and which deadlines apply for complaints. The goal is to give you practical advice so you can secure a healthy indoor climate, avoid misunderstandings and handle necessary repairs without legal expertise. The text explains terms simply and shows concrete actions you as a tenant can take right away. Read on for answers and practical templates.

Energy, heating and indoor climate: what it means for you

Tenant rights concern both the technical condition of the dwelling and the payments you may be charged. The landlord is responsible for ensuring the dwelling meets basic requirements for heating and moisture protection, while the tenant normally pays for consumption according to agreement. In disputes, documentation and prompt communication can make a big difference.

Heating and heating bills

If you experience lack of heating or unreasonable heating bills, first check the lease and any consumption statements. Collect receipts and meter readings so you can show concrete amounts and dates.

• Contact the landlord in writing requesting an explanation of the heating bill.
• Request repairs if radiators or the heating system are not working properly.
• Keep meter readings, photos and receipts as evidence.

Repairs and maintenance

The landlord is usually responsible for major installations and structural maintenance, while the tenant often handles minor upkeep tasks. Always agree on repairs in writing and set a deadline for completion.

• Report faults in writing and request a date for remedy.
• Ask for confirmation or a repair receipt after work is done.
• Document damage with photos and dates.

Damp and mold

Damp and mold can affect health. Report issues to the landlord immediately and demand an inspection. If the landlord does not respond, you can bring the case to the Tenancy Board or seek guidance via official channels.

• Request a professional assessment of cause and remediation.
• Take photos and note smells, symptoms and the time of discovery.
• Send a written defect notice to the landlord and demand a response within a reasonable time.

Access to the property and privacy

The landlord normally must not enter your home without agreement. Notice of inspection or repair should be given in good time unless there is an acute danger.

• Request date and time in writing when the landlord intends to enter the property.
• Note who came and what was done during the visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for repair of the heating system?

Generally, the landlord is responsible for major installations and technical faults, while the tenant must handle minor day-to-day maintenance tasks, unless otherwise agreed in the lease.

What should I do if there is mold in the apartment?

Report the problem to the landlord in writing immediately, document with photos, and demand quick remediation. If the landlord does not react, you can contact the Tenancy Board or seek guidance via official channels^[1].

Can the landlord change the heating bill without notice?

The landlord must be able to document the calculation and basis for changes. Check your lease and request an itemized statement and explanation in writing. If in doubt, you can complain to the Tenancy Board or get advice.

How to

1. Document the issue: record dates, photos, meter readings and keep receipts.
2. Write to the landlord: send a short factual defect notice with desired action and a reasonable deadline.
3. Follow up: call and confirm the conversation in writing for record.
4. Bring the case: if the landlord does not respond, file a complaint with the Tenancy Board including all documentation.
5. Seek advice for financial claims: contact counseling if there are monetary demands or withheld services.

Key takeaways

• Document problems thoroughly and keep all receipts.
• Always send written notices to the landlord and ask for confirmation.
• Use the Tenancy Board or official guidance in case of disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Tenancy Board — Official complaint guidance
• Retsinformation.dk — Rent Act and legislation
• Borger.dk — Practical guidance for tenants

1. [1] Huslejenævnet — Official information and complaint options
2. [2] Retsinformation.dk — The Rent Act (law text and amendments)
3. [3] Borger.dk — Guidance for tenants and lease agreements