Tenant: heating and hot water faults in Denmark
Utilities & statements (heat, water, electricity; on-account vs flat)
3 min read
·
published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Denmark, lack of heat or unstable hot water can be both uncomfortable and hazardous to health. This guide explains common faults — e.g. poor circulation, defective valves, air in the system, or district heating issues — and what you as a tenant can do. We cover how to document faults, what you can demand from the landlord, how to request repair, and when you may get a rent reduction or require remediation. There is also information on where you can complain (rent tribunal or court)[2] and which deadlines apply, so you can act quickly and correctly. We also show how to use photos and date-stamped communication as evidence, and give advice on temporary solutions while the case is processed.
Where do faults occur?
Faults can occur in many parts of the heating system, from radiators to central heating or the district heating connection.
Common technical causes
- Circulation pump failure — reduced heat or no hot water.
- Air in the system — uneven heating and gurgling radiators.
- Defective valves or thermostats — some rooms may become cold.
- Low pressure in district heating or hot water tank — reduced flow.
- Fault in hot water tank or heat exchanger — lack of hot water.
In most cases the landlord is responsible for fixing heating system faults.
When must the landlord repair?
According to the Rent Act[1], the landlord must ensure the dwelling is in a proper condition, including heating and hot water. Urgent faults must be repaired quickly; other issues may have reasonable deadlines depending on the case.
Notify the landlord in writing and keep your documentation before filing a complaint.
What can you do as a tenant?
Follow these steps to ensure documentation and prompt action.
- Document the fault with clear photos or video and note times and affected rooms.
- Notify the landlord in writing (email or letter) and state a reasonable deadline for repair.
- Allow contractor access if agreed and keep records of completed work.
- File a complaint with the rent tribunal if the landlord does not act or the rent reduction must be decided[3].
Photos with dates and timestamped messages strengthen your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for repairs to the heating system?
- As a general rule, the landlord pays for repairs unless the damage is due to the tenant's breach.
- Can I get a rent reduction if there is no heat?
- Yes, in some cases you can claim a proportional reduction or have the matter decided by the rent tribunal.
- How long does the landlord have to repair?
- It depends on the severity; urgent faults must be repaired quickly, while other faults may have reasonable deadlines.
How to
- Observe and note symptoms and times for reduced heat or lack of hot water.
- Take photos and video with dates to document the issue.
- Send a written fault report to the landlord demanding repair and suggesting a deadline.
- Arrange access for contractors and keep receipts for work done.
- Contact the rent tribunal or seek legal advice if the landlord does not respond.
- Consider temporary solutions and record expenses if the case leads to compensation or rent reduction.
Key takeaways
- Always document faults with photos and timestamps.
- Notify the landlord in writing and retain all communication.
- Use the rent tribunal if discussion with the landlord does not resolve the issue.
Help and support / Resources
- Lejeloven and related legislation
- Borger.dk – guidance for tenants
- Huslejenaevn – how to file a complaint
