Tenants in Denmark: Who pays electricity, water and heating
As a tenant in Denmark, bills for electricity, water and heating can be confusing. This guide helps tenants understand who normally pays which utilities, the difference between a conto and fixed billing, and what steps you can take if you disagree with the landlord. We also explain how to document consumption, what rights exist under the Rent Act, and where to find help at the rent tribunals or through official channels.
Who pays what?
The distribution depends on the lease and technical installations. Here are the most common arrangements:
- Electricity: Often paid by the meter holder, but tenants may pay a conto or after meter reading (payment).
- Water: Typically tenants pay for their own consumption, or the landlord distributes costs based on meters (payment).
- Heating: Central heating can be included in the rent or billed separately via meters or a distribution account (payment).
A conto vs fixed billing
A conto means you pay an estimated monthly amount based on expected consumption; at year end an annual account is prepared and adjustments are made. Fixed billing is a set amount that is not adjusted regularly and is often included in the rent.
Repairs and operation
If a defect affects heating, water or electricity (e.g., no heat or leaking pipes), responsibility is often shared: the landlord must ensure habitability, while minor maintenance may fall to the tenant per agreement.
- Serious defects like lack of heat or water damage should be reported to the landlord immediately (repair).
- Document damage with photos and dates to support any complaints or claims (evidence).
Billing disputes and complaints
If you disagree with a bill, start by contacting the landlord in writing with documentation. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can file a complaint with the local rent tribunal or get advice via borger.dk.[1]
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays extra heating if district heating rises?
- It depends on your contract: if heating is included in the rent, the landlord must bear changes in heating prices, otherwise the cost may be adjusted according to agreement or accounting.
- Can the landlord demand a conto payment without accounts?
- The landlord should be able to document conto payments and reconcile against consumption; lack of accounts can be grounds for objection.
- What do I do if there is no heating?
- Notify the landlord immediately in writing, document the defect, and contact the rent tribunal if the problem is not resolved quickly.[2]
How to
- Contact the landlord in writing and explain the issue with dates and photos (contact).
- Collect documentation: meter readings, bills and photos of damage (evidence).
- Submit a formal complaint to the rent tribunal or use borger.dk for guidance if you cannot agree (file).
- Follow up regularly and keep all correspondence until the case is closed (support).
