Tenant rights when landlord enters in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you may be unsure what happens if a landlord enters your home. This guide explains tenant rights, rules for access, notice requirements and when a tenant may claim compensation or reimbursement. We also cover how emergency situations differ from scheduled inspections, which documents or evidence strengthen your case, and which authorities you can contact. The language is plain so you can act quickly — for example demand written notice, request a condition report or file a complaint with the rent tribunal. After reading you should better assess who pays for damage and what the next steps should be.
What does the law say?
The Danish Rent Act defines the framework for access to the rented property and tenant rights in Denmark [1]. As a tenant you are entitled to privacy and normally prior notice, except in emergencies. If a landlord acts without lawful basis you may demand compensation or file a complaint with the rent tribunal.
When may the landlord enter?
- Emergency situations: e.g. fire or major water damage where immediate access is necessary to limit harm.
- Planned inspections or maintenance after prior agreement or lawful notice.
- If the tenant has given written or clearly stated verbal permission for access at an agreed time.
- In cases of suspected serious breach, the landlord may seek access, but formal requirements and notice must be respected.
As a rule, a landlord must provide prior notice before entering unless there is imminent danger.
Who pays for damage or repairs?
Differentiate between normal wear, necessary building repairs and damage caused by the tenant. Liability and payment depend on cause and documentation.
- The landlord pays for necessary building repairs and normal wear, unless the lease states otherwise.
- The tenant pays for damage caused by negligence or breach by the tenant.
- The deposit can sometimes be used to cover documented damage, but its use requires an itemized statement and evidence.
Always keep photos and receipts as documentation for damage and repairs.
How to complain or claim compensation
Follow a systematic approach: document the incident, request a written explanation from the landlord, and contact authorities or advice services if needed.
- Document the incident thoroughly with photos, dates and any witnesses.
- Send a written request to the landlord for explanation and any compensation.
- Contact the rent tribunal or citizen service for guidance and to file a formal complaint [2].
- Consider legal assistance for serious disputes or larger compensation claims.
Always respond within deadlines set by the authorities to preserve your rights.
Frequently asked questions
- May the landlord enter without notice?
- Generally no; the landlord must give notice unless there is an emergency or the tenant has consented.
- Who pays for damage after a landlord enters?
- If the damage is caused by the landlord's actions, the landlord may be liable; if caused by the tenant, the tenant may be required to pay.
- How do I file a complaint?
- You can file a complaint with the rent tribunal or seek guidance at citizen service, and you should always include documentation.
How to
- Document the incident thoroughly with photos, dates and notes about what happened.
- Send a written request to the landlord asking for explanation and any compensation.
- Contact the rent tribunal for guidance and to submit a formal complaint [2].
- Seek legal advice if the case is serious or involves large compensation claims.
Key takeaways
- Documentation is often decisive in succeeding with a claim.
- Contact the rent tribunal early for guidance on the process.
- The landlord typically bears responsibility for structural repairs.
Help and support / Resources
- Borger.dk - Guidance on renting and complaints
- Retsinformation.dk - Texts such as the Rent Act
- Huslejenaevn.dk - Local rent tribunals
