Tenant Guide: Insulation and Windows in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, problems with insulation or leaky windows can cause drafts, moisture damage and higher heating bills. This guide explains common faults, what is usually the landlord's responsibility, and what the tenant is expected to maintain. You will get concrete advice on documentation, how to complain in writing, and which official bodies you can contact, such as the Huslejenævn or the courts. The language is simple and the steps are practical so you can act quickly and protect your rights as a tenant. Use the guide as a checklist before contacting the landlord or seeking a formal decision. The text also shows which legal options and deadlines you should be aware of, and how to get free guidance from authorities.
What can go wrong with insulation and windows?
Typical problems affecting comfort and health include leaky frames, condensation and mold, poorly fitted seals and general heat loss from poorly insulated areas.
- Drafts at frames or cracks, especially at corners and bottom sills.
- Condensation and mold indicating moisture problems or insufficient ventilation.
- Defective seals or broken panes that do not close tightly.
- Increased heating costs due to heat loss through old or poorly insulated windows.
Who pays?
Responsibility depends on the cause and the lease. Structural faults and normal maintenance of the building often fall under the landlord's responsibility according to the Rent Act, while minor maintenance or damage caused by the tenant is typically the tenant's responsibility.
- Read the lease for specific maintenance rules.
- Contact the landlord in writing and describe the problem with dates and photos.
- If you cannot agree, you can bring the case to the Rent Tribunal or the courts.
How to document and complain
Good evidence increases the chance of a quick solution. Start by collecting photos, noting times and temperature differences, and consider getting a professional assessment.
- Take clear photos of damage and condensation from multiple angles.
- Prepare a short factual complaint with dates and send it to the landlord by email or registered mail.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repair in your complaint, e.g. 14 days, and document that the complaint was sent.
- If nothing happens, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or consider civil action in court.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Must the landlord pay for replacement of windows or insulation?
- It depends on the cause; typically the landlord pays for structural faults, while damages caused by the tenant may be the tenant's responsibility.
- What should I do about mold or moisture?
- Document with photos, send a written complaint to the landlord and contact the Rent Tribunal if the landlord does not respond.
- Where do I complain if the landlord does not act?
- You can complain to the Rent Tribunal or bring the case before the district court; also see guidance and standard forms on Borger.dk.
How-To
- Identify the problem and take pictures from multiple angles.
- Collect all documentation: dates, correspondence and any measurements.
- Send a written complaint to the landlord requesting repair and a reasonable deadline.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal if the landlord does not respond within the deadline.
- Seek legal advice or bring the case to court if necessary.
Key Takeaways
- Document issues clearly with dated photos.
- Start with a written complaint to the landlord before formal steps.
- The Rent Tribunal can resolve many disputes without court.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Retsinformation - Rent Act (Lejeloven)
- [2] Rent Tribunals - Huslejenaevn.dk
- [3] Borger.dk - Guidance and forms
