Tenant Guide: Repairs in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you may face issues in your home, from small repairs to serious defects like damp or lack of heating. This guide clearly explains who normally pays for which repairs, how to notify your landlord of problems, what deadlines apply, and how to document issues correctly so you are stronger in a dispute. The text also covers your complaint options, including the Rent Tribunal and the courts, and gives practical steps to follow. The language is simple and examples are based on Danish tenancy law and practice so you can act quickly as a tenant in Denmark. Read on for concrete examples, templates for written complaints and step-by-step actions.
Who pays for repairs?
As a rule, the landlord covers major repairs and maintenance that ensure the basic functions of the home, while the tenant often pays for minor ongoing maintenance or damage caused by the tenant. See the tenancy law for details.[1]
- The landlord covers main installations such as heating, plumbing and roof damage.
- The tenant often pays for small replacements due to normal wear and tear if agreed in the lease.
- Damage caused by break-ins or negligence may be charged to the tenant.
How to report a fault
Notify the landlord in writing as soon as possible, describe the fault and the action you want, and propose a practical access time. A written message makes it easier to document your contact and any responses.
- Write a clear fault description with the date and send it by email or registered letter.
- Specify a reasonable deadline for repair, e.g. 7–14 days for non-urgent faults.
- Attach photos or videos as evidence of the issue.
Documentation and evidence
Good documentation is crucial in a dispute. Collect photos, dates, correspondence and any receipts for repairs. Also note who entered the property and when.
- Take clear photos from multiple angles and keep the original files.
- Save dates of contacts and responses from the landlord.
- Keep receipts for purchases or temporary repairs if you expect reimbursement.
What to do in a dispute?
If the landlord does not respond or you disagree about responsibility, you can complain to the Rent Tribunal or ultimately go to court. The Rent Tribunal handles many disputes about maintenance and rent.[2]
- Submit a written complaint to the Rent Tribunal with documentation.
- Seek guidance from the municipality or a tenant organization before filing.
- Consider legal action if the case is complex or has financial consequences.
FAQ
- Who pays for a leaking tap?
- Typically the landlord if the fixture or installation is defective. Minor maintenance agreed in the contract may be the tenant's responsibility.
- How quickly must the landlord respond to a fault report?
- Urgent problems should normally be fixed immediately; non-urgent faults are expected to be remedied within a reasonable time, often 7–14 days depending on the nature of the problem.
- Can I withhold rent if the landlord does not fix faults?
- Withholding rent is risky and should only be done after legal advice or a decision from the Rent Tribunal or court.
How to
- Identify the fault and take photos or video as documentation.
- Send a written fault report to the landlord with a request for repair.
- Allow access to tradespeople by agreement and keep records of times.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repair and state next steps if no action is taken.
- File a complaint with the Rent Tribunal with all documentation if the issue is not resolved.[3]
